Jaden Skinner, freshman forward/midfielder for CSU Bakersfield women’s soccer team scored the winning goal against UC Riverside, which landed her the title of Athlete of the Week.

Originally from Simi Valley, Calif., Skinner began playing soccer at 9-years-old, which soon lead her to playing for an academy league her senior year of high school.

After playing three years on Simi Valley High School soccer team and one year on academy league, Skinner was recruited to play for CSUB.

She was inspired to play collegiate-level soccer at a young age. Growing up she watched both of her older sisters play sports at their prospective universities.

“Both [of] my older sisters played Division I sports, so I thought it’d be cool to be the third one to do it,” said Skinner.

Skinner said her most exciting moment was scoring her goal against UC Riverside. “I cannot believe that even happened.”

This was Skinner’s first goal since playing at CSUB and it also was her first goal of the season.

“I loved how my teammates were just so happy for me too,” said Skinner.

Skinner said that is was nerve-wrecking when first meeting her new teammates, but she was immediately accepted and welcomed by her teammates.

Senior midfielder, Sophie Freeman, is Skinner’s mentor and “big sister” on the team. “I definitely look up to her a lot,” said Skinner.

“We all work really well together,” as she said while talking about her teammates.

Skinner is grateful for all the opportunities soccer has provided for her, but she is most grateful for all of the friendships she has gained from playing soccer. “I just love the friendships,” she said.

She is excited to continue her next four years as a Roadrunner. “I’m really excited for this season. It’s going to be good because we’re moving to the Big West next season.”