College Soccer Star Plays for One Goal: ‘Making It to Heaven’

Published: August 29, 2025

By Mallory Mattingly

South Carolina soccer star Katie Shea Collins has goals much bigger than kicking the ball into the net.

“Soccer at the end of the day, like, that’s not the goal, right? The goal is making it to heaven in it. It’s so incredible as an athlete that I’m able to do two things I love. I get to praise the Lord while also playing the sport I love,” Collins said on Sports Spectrum “What’s Up” podcast.

“At the end of the day, I want to win no matter what. Like, I promise you, I’m going to give everything I have to win,” she assured. “But I also know that at the end of the day, a loss is a loss, and I can’t change it when it happens when that final whistle blows. I can’t do anything, but I can control how I act, and I can control how I give it up to the Lord and how I will train for the next day.”

Over the summer, Collins, who’s Instagram bio includes Romans 8:31, got the chance to play with two-time Olympic gold medalist Hope Solo.

Solo played for the U.S. Women’s National team and participated in four Olympic Games, winning two gold medals (2008 and 2012).

Collins shared about the incredible experience on social media.

“Still at a loss for words,” she wrote. “Getting to play with Hope Solo has been one of the greatest honors of my life. She’s not just a legend, but she’s also the most down to earth and humble person that I’ve ever met. She’s paved the way for players like me, and being able to share this part of her journey will forever have changed my life.”

“Thank you, Hope, for showing me what it means to be fearless. For believing in me. I will cherish this opportunity for the rest of my life,” Collins concluded.

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During her first season with the Gamecocks last year, Collins started in 18 of the 19 games she played in, scoring 13 goals, four of which were game-winning.

“Her three SEC Freshman of the Week nods marked the most in a season in program history,” Gamecocks Online wrote.

“I chose USC because the team atmosphere was unmatched,” she said of her team. “I know that they’re going to push me to be not only the best player but also the best person I can be.”

Collins understands what many college athletes don’t: sports are not everything. Instead, she keeps her eyes on Christ and lets Him take care of whether she wins or loses.

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