Before she ever stepped onto a competitive field, Shaniya Brooks was already a spark waiting to ignite. Now a standout striker and winger for Sporting California G2010 ECNL, the Southern California native is turning early backyard games into high-level goals. Known for her creative flair, aggressive style, and undeniable nose for the net, Shaniya plays the game with purpose and passion far beyond her years. Whether she’s carving through defenders or finding the back of the net, her mindset is simple—don’t think, just do. With big dreams and even bigger drive, Shaniya is chasing greatness one goal at a time.

What first got you interested in playing soccer?
When I was younger, I used to play soccer in the backyard with my mom just for fun. We also watched a lot of soccer together. I had a natural flair for the game, which is actually how I got my nickname. That early love and instinct for the sport made me want to join a team as soon as I was old enough.

How old were you when you started playing, and what do you remember about your first game?
I started playing when I was about 8 years old. I remember having so much fun with my team. I stood out on defense—I loved stealing the ball from opposing forwards. That moment really sparked my love for competition.

Who has been your biggest inspiration in soccer and why?
Trinity Rodman and Savy King inspire me so much. Seeing Black women like them dominate at the highest levels motivates me because they look like me. They prove that it’s possible to reach professional and national teams with hard work and talent. Watching them makes me believe I can do the same.

What position do you play, and what do you enjoy most about it?
I play striker and winger, but striker is my passion. Around age 11 or 12, I told my coach I didn’t want to play defense anymore—I wanted to be up front where I could be creative and score goals. I love the challenge and the freedom that comes with playing forward.

Describe your playing style in three words.
Aggressive, creative, and shooting.

What’s been your favorite memory on the field so far?
My favorite memory is scoring my first goal in club soccer. My coach Kristi fully supported my move from defense to forward, and that belief changed everything. That first season as a forward, I ended up leading the team in goals. It was a moment that confirmed I was where I was meant to be.

How do you prepare mentally and physically for a big game?
Mentally, I build confidence through extra practice—whether it’s extra shooting reps or 1v1 drills outside of my usual three practices a week. Knowing I’ve put in the work keeps me sharp. Physically, I focus on strength and conditioning outside of practice to stay in top shape and keep improving.

What’s your favorite soccer drill or practice routine?
I love rondos. They’re fast-paced and force me to think quickly, which really helps during games. They’ve also improved my passing and awareness under pressure.

Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions?
I always wear pre-wrap and do my makeup before games. It’s not traditional in soccer, but it makes me feel confident. I also have bracelets I wear to the game, and before kickoff, I put them in the center pocket of my soccer bag—it’s part of my routine.

What does a typical training week look like for you?
Right now, I’m about to enter high school. I train every day in some form. On Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, I have club practice. Tuesday through Thursday, I also have high school summer training. Outside of that, I do 15 minutes of cardio, 15 minutes of skill work, and 15 minutes of mental training daily. Sometimes that means journaling or watching soccer to grow my game from different angles.

How do you stay motivated during tough times or after a tough loss?
I stay locked in on the next goal. Win, lose, or tie, I always treat it like the game is 0-0 and push to score again. I review game footage and focus on preparing even harder for the next one. I use every moment to fuel improvement.

Who is your favorite professional player and what do you admire about their game?
Cristiano Ronaldo. I’ve watched him play since I was little. His hunger, his confidence, and his work ethic are unmatched. He attacks with purpose, and you can tell he believes in himself every time he touches the ball. He’s also a good person off the field, which I respect.

What’s your favorite professional team to watch?
The U.S. Women’s National Team. They’re all ballers. Every player brings intensity and elite skill. Watching them play is like watching my dream on the field—I hope to be part of that team one day.

What’s the best advice a coach has ever given you?
Believe in yourself and always bring intensity. Don’t overthink—just play your game.

What’s one skill or aspect of your game you’re currently working to improve?
I’m always working on my shot and 1v1s to goal. It’s a huge part of my position and one of the biggest ways I can make an impact. The older I get, the better the competition, so I have to keep sharpening my edge.

How do you balance soccer with school, work, or other commitments?
I stay on top of my schoolwork by using time wisely—whether it’s finishing assignments at school or on the way to practice. After practice, I review for tests or complete any remaining homework. I spend a lot of time in the car going to and from games and practices, so I use every minute to stay ahead academically. Good grades are just as important to me as goals.

What’s your proudest accomplishment in your soccer journey so far?
When I played for Ventura Surf as a 7th grader, I trained and competed with girls all the way up to seniors in high school. That’s when I realized I had something special.
Another big moment was transitioning into ECNL with LAFC during my 8th grade year. I started as a discovery player and within 2–3 months earned a spot on the full-time roster. In Southern California, that means competing with and against some of the best players in the nation, and I’m proud to be part of that league.

Have you ever had a setback or injury, and how did you overcome it?
I’ve had coaches who didn’t believe in me. Instead of letting it break me, I used it as motivation. I worked 10 times harder to prove myself and get better. That doubt became my fuel.

What does being part of a team mean to you?
It means being in a sisterhood. A great team has a coach who believes in every player and teammates who push each other to grow. We support one another’s dreams, compete with love, and lift each other up through every win, loss, and lesson.

Do you have a favorite quote or motto that motivates you?
“Don’t think, just do.”
It reminds me not to overthink or get stuck in mistakes. It pushes me to trust my instincts, be confident, and keep moving forward.

What do you like to do when you’re not playing soccer?
I enjoy hanging out with my friends and expressing myself creatively through writing or drawing.

What’s your go-to snack or meal after a match?
Definitely a burger!

If you could play a match anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Brazil. The energy, culture, and love for soccer there is unmatched.

Where do you see your soccer journey taking you in the next few years?
I want to become a top goal scorer in both high school and club. My long-term goal is to play Division I soccer at a top program.

What advice would you give to younger players just starting out?
Believe in yourself and surround yourself with people who believe in you too. That support is everything. With confidence and the right environment, you can grow in ways you never imagined.

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