CALDWELL, N.J. -- The title of team captain is most often reserved for seniors, but leadership has always come naturally for Yuli Amador (Union, N.J.), who is in her junior season in the Caldwell University women's soccer midfield. Now in her second year as a Cougar after transferring from Bloomfield College, also the former home of CU head coach Sammy Adjei, Amador was an immediate hit with her teammates in 2024, and is ready to help the Cougars take that next step after reaching the CACC Championship match last year.

The Accounting major took a few minutes to talk about her personal and team goals as the Cougars prepare to kick off the 2025 season at Mansfield on Thursday.

What is your main goal for your team this season, both on and off the field?
My main goal is to help each of my teammates realize their full potential and play at a high level by guiding them as best I can. I also want to foster a strong, close-knit bond with the team that helps us come together as a family. The ultimate team goal is to get back to the CACC final and win the championship. 

What is a team motto or a core value that will drive your team this season?
Our team's motto is "selfless," and it is what motivates us to give our best every day. My teammates and I know that the team is bigger than any one player, so we show up consistently and give it our all for the team's success. We must be selfless so that we can do what is best for the team. 

What is the one thing you want fans to know about your team?
I want fans to know that this team is an extremely talented and hardworking group of young women who are capable of doing great things. 

Who is a player on your team that we should be watching out for this season, and why?
A few players to watch out for are sophomore midfielders Ana Pinzon and Suri Silva, and junior defender Lea Masching. I praise Ana for her excellent vision in creating many plays that lead to goal-scoring chances. I believe that as she begins her sophomore year, she will continue to mature and raise her game even more. I played with Suri over the summer and saw great improvements in her game. Although Lea could not play last season, I have seen through training how technical and strong she can be on the ball. Lea has also become more vocal on the field, and I envision her leadership will blossom as the season progresses. Even though I singled out these three individuals, I firmly believe that the team has tons of amazing players, and everyone will be worth watching. 

What is one personal goal you're striving for this season?
A personal goal of mine is to make steady improvements from last season, particularly in my technical abilities and mindset. I also want to be there for my teammates, serving as a role model, whether that's through my performance on or off the field by providing support, encouragement, and leadership. My aim is to set a positive example that inspires others to be the best they can be. 

What are you most looking forward to in your first season as a team captain?
I am looking forward to becoming even closer with my teammates and creating lasting memories both on and off the field. I am excited to have the opportunity to play again at the DII level and to compete with high intensity. I am eager to take on the challenges that await this season and work together with my team to accomplish something special. 

After you graduate, what are you hoping to do next?
After I complete my undergraduate degree, I plan to set my sights on achieving my Master's immediately. My next goal is to begin my career at an accounting firm, where I can start to grow in my field.