When Saliah J. ’25 arrived at San Domenico four years ago, she didn’t just bring her talent—she brought a mindset full of grit, intention, and a quiet fire that carried her from high school promise to international potential.
The senior standout is now recognized on one of the game’s biggest stages, earning a call-up this spring to join the Zimbabwe U-20 national team training camp ahead of the upcoming World Cup Qualifiers. It’s the kind of moment most athletes dream of. For Saliah, it’s a moment she fought for. Because her journey hasn’t been easy, it’s the latest chapter in an extraordinary—and sometimes uncertain—path. Saliah didn’t just rise; she rebuilt.
During her high school career, Saliah faced what most young athletes fear: a torn ACL. This injury can fracture confidence and threaten dreams, but where others might retreat, Saliah responded with resolve. “When she went down with the injury, it was heartbreaking,” says Head Coach Fiona O’Sullivan, a former Ireland international player. “But what followed was one of the most inspiring comebacks I’ve witnessed. She attacked her rehab with the same intensity and intelligence she brings to the pitch.”
Even while sidelined, Saliah was anything but absent. She showed up, supporting teammates, studying the game, and continuing to lead. And when she returned, she was sharper, stronger, and smarter. She became a four-year cornerstone—not just for her goals but also for her consistency, commitment, and culture-setting presence. “She didn’t just grow into the program — she helped build it,” O’Sullivan adds. “The younger players look up to her. They watch how she trains, treats others, and holds herself accountable. That’s a legacy.”
For Athletic Director Mark Churchill, Saliah’s journey is a testament to perseverance. “Saliah’s impact has been incredible. As a freshman, she was already standing out in the league. Even after her season-ending injury, she led her team with positivity and encouragement. That year ended up the best in school history because of the culture she helped build.” That culture, defined by determination, leadership, and heart, led to a D1 scholarship to play at Southern Miss, and now a Zimbabwe U-20 national team call-up.
“This is truly a dream come true,” Saliah says. “I’ve always wanted to work hard not only for myself but also for my country. Having the opportunity to represent and play for Zimbabwe is an unreal feeling. It also means I get another chance to play the sport that has changed my life.”
Reflecting on her four years at San Domenico, Saliah is most proud of staying true to her goals. “I’m proud that I never lost sight of my essential goal — to play at the highest level of soccer I’m capable of and to represent young, talented women back home,” she shares.
Saliah’s influence goes beyond her achievements in the game. As a teammate, she has always led by example, encouraging others to push themselves and believe in their potential. Her legacy will be felt long after she’s gone. “I hope young athletes at SD will challenge themselves, embrace being different, and never fear failure or judgment from anyone else,” Saliah says.
As she steps onto the international stage with Zimbabwe, Saliah carries the lessons, memories, and support of a community that watched her rise, fall, and rise again. But if history is any indicator, her story is far from over. The world may just be getting to know Saliah, but at San Domenico, she’ll always be remembered as a player who didn’t just compete—she inspired.