Director Girls Teams U9-U11
Kiva Gresham is the U9-U11 Director of Coaching for Rio Rapids Soccer Club. She is a native of Albuquerque, New Mexico and played for Rio Vista FC 89’ under Chris Brennan. After graduating from Highland High School, Kiva attended Louisiana Tech University, where she played for 4 years (2007-2010) and still holds the school record for the most points in a single season and is ranked in the top three for career goals, assists and total points. After her collegiate career, Kiva played semi-professional soccer in Dallas, TX, Shreveport, LA, and overseas in Trinidad and Tobago.
For the last 6 years, Kiva served as the assistant women’s soccer coach at Louisiana Tech University. During that time, she also coached both girls and boys soccer at Ruston High School. She ran youth camps and has coached in numerous other youth environments including Rio Vista Youth Academy, Berkshire Soccer Academy, Exact Soccer Camp, and TTFC in Trinidad and Tobago. Kiva has a deep appreciation for the diversity in soccer and hopes to spread her passion of the game to her players.
Kiva earned her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and Health Promotion and her Masters of Arts in Elementary Education. Kiva is an avid traveler and learner of new culture. She enjoys playing and watching soccer, especially Arsenal. Kiva loves animals and also enjoys drawing, photography, and spending time with family and friends.
COMPANY RELATED
Q: What are 3 words to describe Rio Rapids SC?
A: Integrity, competitive, Fun!
Q: What drew you to become a part of Rio Rapids originally?
A: I really enjoyed playing for Rio as a youth soccer player. I knew how experienced the Rio coaching staff was and was eager to continue building on my coaching knowledge.
Q: What is your favorite part about Rio Rapids SC ?
A: I love how much support there is for the coaching staff. There are classroom sessions teaching Rio curriculum that also focus on building training sessions. Additionally, there are opportunities for senior coaches to observe training sessions or games and provide feedback. There is a huge focus on coach education which not only has a positive impact on Rio coaches, but our players as well!
Q: What is your role at Rio Rapids?
A: I am the Director of Coaching for U9-U11 Girls. I am also the Coaching Mentorship and Community Service Representative for Rio Rapids SC.
PERSONAL
Q: What is the first concert you went to? What is the last?
A: My first concert was 3 Doors Down in high school, and my last concert was Keith Urban. I like many different types of music.
Q: Any favorite line from a movie?
A: “Why not?” -We Bought a Zoo
Q: Best vacation you’ve been to?
A: My family and I went to the Ozarks in Arkansas a couple years ago. We stayed in a cabin, went zip lining, horseback riding, and canoeing. It was so fun to see my parents acting like kids all over again!
Q: Do you have a favorite quote?
A: “I once cried because I had no shoes to play football with my friends, but one day I saw a man who had no feet, and I realized how rich I am.” -The legend, Zinedine Zidane
Q: What books are at your bedside?
A: A sketchbook.
Q: What do you like most about your job?
A: I love having the opportunity to share my passion for the game with my players. I get to be outside giving back to the sport I love nearly everyday. I know how important having a female role model is for young players, and I value that responsibility.
