IRVINE, Calif. --- It's tough to hold back a smile around newest Anteater, Victoria Buda.
The 5'4" forward was a captain at Palos Verdes Peninsula High School while also garnering team MVP honors and has been the team's top offensive weapon the last three years running.
"Tori has a knack for scoring goals and knows where the goal is at all times," Head Coach Scott Juniper boasted.
"I'm most looking forward to the training. This will be a huge challenge to prove myself as a person and player, and I love a good challenge!"
Buda has met the challenge in the Olympic Developmental Program since sixth grade reaching the regional championships in 2013 and 2014 and finishing with a national title in 2013.
"I chose to attend UCI not only for its breathtaking campus and location, but the amazing soccer program it has to offer. I absolutely love all the coaching staff and how the program carries itself. I know when I attend UC Irvine it will give me any opportunity I need to expand my soccer career and be prepared for any future plans from its prestigious schooling."
Coach Juniper echoes her excitement. "We travelled together to Costa Rica with the ODP and she showcased her versatility. After the match, the Costa Rican television crew approached her for an interview and she flashed the biggest smile. That smile is one intangible that will be very welcomed."
Buda's future plans, whether they land on the pitch or in the classroom where Buda is sights set on becoming a teacher, will be full of excitement and smiles.
"I'm so excited to be joining UC Irvine and its community. I love meeting new people and exploring new places, so if they see me around, don't hesitate to say hello!"
_________________________________________________________
For UC Irvine Athletics ticket information, please call (949) 824-5000 or e-mailathletics.tickets@uci.edu. For more information click here.
For information on how you can help support UC Irvine Athletics, please call (949) 824-6933 or e-mail aaf@uci.edu. For additional information, click here.
You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter and by downloading the UCI Front Row app, available free to all Anteater fans through iTunes and Google Play, to view schedules, results, and up-to-the-minute news.
