CASTINE, Maine — The Maine Maritime Academy women's soccer team announced the commitment of another piece to its 2026 recruiting class, as Sofia Marie Nieves will join the Mariners for the upcoming season.

Nieves joins the Mariners from Portland, Maine where she attended Deering High School and was a four-year varsity starter.

In addition to her high school career, Nieves has played four year for the Maine Lightning Soccer Club Girls 08 Regional.

Nieves is a defensive midfield/left outside back who was the youngest player of the year in 2022, most improved player in 2022 and 2025, SMAA honorable mention in 2025 a two-time captain and an SMAA All-Academic selection this past fall.

Off the field, Nieves was recognized to attend the SMAA Leadership Summit in 2024 and maintains a 3.7 GPA.

"I am incredibly grateful to have the opportunity to continue my soccer and lacrosse journey at a collegiate level," Nieves said. "I can truly not emphasize enough how grateful I am to have grown up with not only my parents, but my coaches who always supported me, no matter what. I am truly thankful for you all, and because of your dedication and perseverance you've put into me as a player, I now have an amazing opportunity. So once again thank you for everything."

While at MMA, Nieves plans to study international business & logistics.