Kenley Kusaba knew San Juan Soccer Club from the sidelines before she ever wore its uniform. She grew up watching both of her older brothers play for the club, started playing soccer herself at four and joined San Juan’s Academy Program at six. She’s been with the club ever since.
Now a Class of 2029 attacking center midfielder, Kusaba earned a spot on the 2025–26 ECNL Regional League Girls All-Regional League Team for Golden State. She followed that recognition with Player of the Match honors in two of her three games at the 2026 SilverLakes Summer Showcase.
Kusaba feels most at home in attacking midfield, where she can stay involved in the play, create chances and help her team score. She’s also played defensive midfield and center back when her team needed her there. Those assignments gave her a better understanding of the game and taught her to take pride in whatever role she’s asked to fill.
“Sometimes it’s about stepping up and doing whatever your team needs to be successful,” Kusaba said. “I love playing attacking midfield, but I’m always willing to help wherever I’m needed.”
Some of Kusaba’s closest friends are the teammates she’s grown up playing alongside. Away from soccer, she describes herself as outgoing and goofy, usually looking for a way to make her friends laugh. When a match kicks off, that same group brings out her competitive side. She loves testing herself against strong teams, and the friendships she’s built at San Juan give her another reason to push herself in training and on game day.
“I love being part of a team where we all push each other to get better and want to see each other succeed,” she said.
Kusaba wants to play college soccer. For now, she sees every practice and match as a chance to get closer to that goal.
“I’m always trying to improve because I know there’s another level I can reach,” she said.
