Freshman forward Mia Root sets up for a shot on goal during SDSU's loss to University of San Diego.
Placerville is a small California town about 45 miles east of Sacramento that is also the starting point of Mia Root’s journey.
Root, a freshman forward on San Diego State women’s soccer team, had to overcome various challenges while growing up in the small town.
“It’s quiet and not really a soccer town,” Root said. “I had to travel long distances to play for competitive clubs because there’s mostly only recreation clubs (in Placerville).”
Root’s interest in soccer blossomed at a young age, and her family, as well as professional club teams saw saw on television, served as an influence.