Rivera Named Essex Female Athlete of the Year at Region 19 Women in Sports Event

Edison, NJ - On Sunday, February 1, Region 19 hosted the National Girls and Women in Sports Day event at Middlesex College to honor female student-athletes across the region. Each institution nominated one female student-athlete in recognition of her outstanding athletic and academic achievements, as well as her commitment to community service initiatives while enrolled at her respective institution. This award highlights the dedication of female student-athletes who embody leadership and excellence and aims to inspire others to lead by example.

This year, the Essex County College Athletics Department proudly nominated women's soccer standout Xiomara Rivera for the honor, recognizing her athletic and academic excellence along with her dedication to community service.

A team captain for the Essex women's soccer program, Rivera demonstrated exceptional leadership on and off the field throughout the season. She earned First Team All-Region honors, led the team in goals, assists, and total points, and was named Garden State Athletic Conference Player of the Week in September.

Women's Soccer Head Coach Monique Edouard recognized Rivera's accomplishments.

"Xiomara consistently demonstrates that hard work, dedication, and perseverance lead to success," said Edouard. "She puts in the effort both on and off the field every day, and this recognition reflects her commitment and character."

Rivera also excelled in the classroom, earning a spot on the Garden State Athletic Conference and Region 19 All-Academic Team for the fall semester. She was named to the Dean's List at Essex County College and posted a 3.62 GPA.

Beyond her athletic and academic success, Rivera serves as the acting president of Essex County College's first-ever Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC). In this role, she has helped lead community service initiatives in partnership with organizations such as the Ironbound Youth Academy Program and a local food bank.

Director of Athletics David Tomkins praised Rivera's impact across the department.

"Xiomara had a significant impact not only on the women's soccer program this season, but also serves as an outstanding role model for all Essex County College student-athletes," said Tomkins. "Her achievements on the field, combined with her academic excellence and leadership qualities, exemplify the standard of excellence we value."

Rivera expressed gratitude for the recognition and her experience as an ECC student-athlete.

"Being recognized at this event meant so much to me," said Rivera. "As a student-athlete at ECC, I've grown not only in my sport but as a leader and as a person, thanks to the constant encouragement from my coaches, teammates, and the entire athletic department. I'm incredibly thankful for the opportunity to represent Essex and to be supported by a community that truly believes in its athletes."

Rivera's honor highlights her dedication, leadership, and lasting impact within the Essex County College athletic community. Congratulations to Xiomara Rivera on this outstanding achievement, and best wishes for continued success in her future endeavors.