PSC are proud to announce the first women's signing of 2024 as Deja Sandoval has signed with FHL in Iceland's Division One.
PSC have a strong relationship with Head Coach Bjorgvin Gunnarsson who was quick to offer the UTSA graduate a playing contract for the 2024 season after being recommend by PSC Women's Director Simon Deeley. Sandoval is one of now ten PSC players signed in the town of Fjarðabyggð in the last 6 years.
Sandoval, who plays center back, had multiple offers on the table and elected to go with the Icelandic outfit as she looks to springboard her career to the higher levels.
We caught up with Deja ahead of her move to Iceland:
"What is it about playing in Iceland that you are most looking forward to?"
I’m excited to take the next step in my career and continue playing with higher level competition. I’m looking forward to challenging myself by being in a completely different environment as well as having the opportunity to gain new life experiences and opportunities.
"What are your hopes and goals for this season (both individually and as a team)?"
Individually l hope to be able to learn from the players and coaches allowing me to adapt and grow in a different style of play. As a team I wish for us to finish as one of the top in the league and continually work off of each other’s strengths and weaknesses.
"How has your experience been with PSC and their facilitating of the deal?"
PSC has been extremely efficient and an overall great agency to work with. Specifically, Simon has had an open line of communication throughout what can be a very stressful process. Coming into the recruitment stage of my career and not knowing what to expect, they have made my experience very smooth and did everything necessary to get me where I wanted to be.
"Is there anyone you would like to thank or acknowledge at this time?"
I’ve had endless amount of support from coaches, teammates, and family over the span of my career. While I am appreciative of everyone I have come in contact with throughout my journey, I want to thank a few people specifically. To my college coaches Derek Pittman, Brock Duckworth, Ben Williams, and Carl Goody, thank you all for pouring into me as a player and person over five years and guiding me to my goal of becoming a professional soccer player. To all my teammates at UTSA, I appreciate every memory we've made and all the blood, sweat and tears we've shed. You guys really showed me what it takes to be a championship team despite different challenges. Lastly, I want to thank my family for supporting me and my dreams no matter the circumstance. Specifically my mom (Delilah Diaz) and dad (Carlos Sandoval), thank you for dedicating years of your time, love, and resources to becoming the athlete I am today.
"What was it about FHL that convinced you to choose Iceland for your first pro contract?"
I haven’t been lucky enough to visit Iceland yet but have only heard positive feedback from others about the country and players experiences with the club. After conversations with the head coach I felt like the club would be a great fit for me based on their values and what they are able to provide me as a player. It didn’t take much searching for me to realize that Iceland is a beautiful country that I can envision myself thriving in and out of futbol.
All here at PSC wish Deja the very best in her first professional contract.
Interested in playing pro yourself? Check out PSC's upcoming pro tryouts or contact simon@pscltd.co.uk for placement options
Tag(s): News