Men's soccer and sports information will be taking advantage of the off-season months to catch up with some of our men's soccer alum to reflect on their experience at Dominican University (or Rosary College).  Today we catch up with Miguel Garcia from the class of 1995.

What have you been up to since graduating from Dominican?

Following my graduation from Dominican University, my life continued to be shaped by the same values of faith, family, and service that were instilled in me during my time on campus.  I built a life alongside my wife, Lia, whom I met while attending Rosary College, and together we have been blessed with two children, Diego and Lili.  Coaching them throughout their youth has been one of my greatest privileges.  Diego is currently a sophomore at Loyola University Chicago, and Lili will begin her studies at the University of Michigan in the fall of 2026.  Both have enjoyed successful soccer careers at St. Ignatius College Prep, including a highlight moment when Lili scored the game‑winning goal to secure the 2025 2A State Championship.

What do you miss most about Dominican?

The most cherished aspect of my time at Dominican was the genuine sense of camaraderie and community that defined campus life.  Dominican was a place where I felt supported, challenged, and truly known—by my peers, my coaches, and especially my professors.  The exceptional educators I learned from went far beyond the classroom, instilling lessons about discipline, integrity, and perseverance that continue to guide me in both my professional and personal life.  Most meaningful of all were the lifelong friendships I formed, particularly through my experience on the soccer team.  Those relationships have stood the test of time, and returning to campus or reconnecting with fellow alumni always feels like coming home.

What was your most memorable moment while at Dominican?

One of my most meaningful memories from my time at Dominican is sharing the soccer field with my teammates—experiences made even more memorable by the presence of my wife, my biggest supporter, cheering me on every step of the way.  Dominican was not only where I grew as a student-athlete, but also where my life began to take shape alongside the person who would become my partner in everything.  Through every success and challenge since then, she has been my constant source of strength and encouragement, and together we have been blessed with two incredible children who remain at the center of all we do.

What advice would you give to an incoming player?

The advice I would give to incoming players is to truly cherish every moment—on the field, in the classroom, and throughout campus life.  My years at Dominican were some of the most meaningful of my life, shaping not only who I was as a student‑athlete, but who I would become as a husband, father, educator, and leader.  The challenges, friendships, and lessons I experienced helped instill a strong work ethic, resilience, and a sense of purpose that continue to guide me today.  Dominican is more than a place to compete; it is a place to grow, to belong, and to lay the foundation for a lifetime of success.