On Thursday, March 13, Mia Pentlicky announced her commitment to Rome City Institute for soccer. Pentlicky is the first Class of 2025 athlete to travel abroad to pursue their academic and athletic career.
“From the moment I learned about the institute, I was drawn to its unique combination of high-level athletics and diverse academic offerings,” Pentlicky told The Fanscotian. “The program not only allowed me to continue competing in soccer at a high level, but it also gave me access to a strong academic foundation with a variety of potential majors to explore.”
The center-defensive-midfielder has played soccer for almost her whole life, progressing in Scotch Plains-Fanwood programs and through Morris Elite Soccer Club. Now graduating high school in June, she will follow in the footsteps of her father who initiated her involvement in the game and played in college as well.
“[My dad] was my first coach, which made the experience even more special and meaningful and helped fuel my passion for the sport and shaped the way I’ve approached soccer ever since,” Pentlicky said. “Through the years, soccer has taught me some of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned so far [in my life].”
The broad women’s soccer program at RCI offers the opportunity to develop year-round under partnered amateur clubs and compete on Romulea, the school’s team in the Femminile Dilettanti Eccellenza—translated to Female Amateur Excellence—division.
“I’m really excited to build strong connections with my teammates,” Pentlicky said. “They become family, especially when you’re all in a new country and have new experiences together.”
For athletes aged 12 to 18, the institute collaborates with the Serie A Elite program in the United States, scouting talented American athletes that wish to transition to Europe and be observed by top professional clubs.
“I’m most looking forward to the entire experience of playing soccer abroad,” Pentlicky said. “It’s such a unique and exciting opportunity that not many people get to have.”
The committed coaching staff includes Mauro Girini, the Athletic Director and Head of Soccer, who has served as an assistant U17 and U19 Women’s Italian National Team Coach, and Marco Montini, the Director of Performance and Sport Science professor. He is known for his role as the Strength & Conditioning coach for the Men’s U19 and U21 Italian National Team.
With an Italian background, Pentlicky will continue to grow her passion for soccer in an atmosphere that feels like home.
“I felt an immediate connection with the environment at Rome City Institute,” Pentlicky said. “The chance to immerse myself in my own culture and language, as well as grow both as an athlete and as a person, made the decision even more exciting.”
Looking back, Pentlicky acknowledges that her time playing in SPF helped her strive for new heights and take away worthwhile lessons.
“[The journey] wasn’t always easy, but it taught me discipline and mental toughness,” Pentlicky said. “I learned what it means to stay committed to a goal, even when the results aren’t immediate.”
