In the journey to success, each decision becomes a stepping stone, and for this passionate athlete, those choices have been pivotal. As a dedicated footballer and aspiring strength and conditioning coach, Oriana has navigated challenging crossroads, including the tough decision to turn down a professional contract in favor of pursuing her education. Her time at TIS has instilled in her a strong work ethic and a growth mindset, qualities that continue to shape her today. Reflecting on her experiences and the guidance of past teachers, she remains committed to her goals, demonstrating that the foundation built at TIS is integral to her ongoing journey.

You attended TIS from Pre-kindergarten. What are some of your most memorable experiences from your time here, and how did they shape who you are today?
My most memorable experiences at TIS include representing the school in sports and exploring different parts of the world through Experience Week trips:

Being part of the girls' football team and middle school volleyball team taught me resilience, teamwork, and leadership. Competing in SCISAC, ACAMIS, and PRC tournaments pushed me to improve my skills and build lasting friendships.

Experience Week trips to Vietnam, Taiwan, and various parts of China exposed me to different cultures, environments, and challenges. From community service projects to outdoor adventures, these trips broadened my perspective and helped me develop independence and adaptability. Whether it was navigating unfamiliar cities, working on team-based challenges, volunteering, or immersing myself in local cultures, these experiences helped shape my curiosity and appreciation for the world beyond the classroom.

Can you describe your journey from TIS to representing Macao in football? How did your time at TIS influence your development as an athlete?
My journey began in Grade 6 when I joined the girls' U16 soccer team with no prior experience. If there hadn’t been a team, I might never have started my football journey. From that first season, I fell in love with the sport. The foundation I built at TIS, through training and competitions, eventually led to my call-up to the Macao Women’s National Team at 15. Coaches like Mr. Koch were instrumental in my growth. He encouraged me to try different positions, take on leadership roles, and introduced me to strength training, which inspired my desire to pursue a degree in Sports and Exercise Science at Loughborough University. He also challenged me to compete in U19 ACAMIS and PRC tournaments, helping me build resilience.

Mr. Masters further encouraged my growth by inviting me to train with the U19 boys' team, allowing me to adapt to a faster-paced game. I'm also grateful to Mr. Beck, Geoff, Coach Ryan, Ms. Pam, Mrs. Peade, Mr. Varga, and Ms. Hildebrand for their invaluable support and wisdom, which continue to shape my journey.

In what ways did TIS prepare you for life abroad, both academically and personally?
Attending an international school allowed me to interact with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds, helping me develop adaptability and strong communication skills. This was invaluable when I moved to England to live with my host family, as it enabled me to navigate a new environment and build connections while playing for AFC Bournemouth U21s.

Academically, handling assignments and presentations at TIS boosted my confidence in public speaking, which benefits me on and off the field. Exposure to key concepts in Sports Performance, Biology, Chemistry, and PE made university studies more manageable, and lessons on referencing simplified academic writing. My teachers emphasized that as a student-athlete, "student" comes first, helping me develop essential time management and organizational skills for balancing training and academics.

What unique perspective have you gained from studying in a top-ranked program (Ranked #1 by QS Ranking in sports-related subjects) that you believe benefits all athletes?

Doing the basics right—such as eating the correct foods, getting enough sleep, and going into training with a clear goal—is what truly benefits all athletes, rather than focusing too much on the finer details. The best athletes excel because they consistently master these fundamentals, building a strong foundation that allows them to perform at their peak.

Studying Sports and Exercise Science has been an eye-opening experience, and has deepened my understanding of athlete performance, training methods, and rehabilitation. 

What inspired you to become a goalie, and how do you handle the pressure of that role? How has being a goalie shaped your approach to challenges in life?
My love for football was sparked by the Japanese anime Inazuma Eleven, which follows a goalkeeper's journey. My cousin and I would mimic scenes at our grandparents’ apartment, where he encouraged me to save shots while standing in front of the sofa. This playful beginning led me to our local football park, where I discovered my passion for the game. I embraced goalkeeping because I was never afraid of balls flying at me. I loved jumping around and diving through the air. That fearless attitude, combined with the excitement of making saves, made goalkeeping feel natural to me.

Being a goalkeeper requires a strong mentality, as it's a position of responsibility where one mistake can be costly, but one great save can change everything. This high-pressure environment taught me to adopt a growth mindset, viewing adversities as challenges rather than setbacks. This approach extends beyond football; whether in academics, business, or personal growth, I focus on staying accountable and always seek ways to improve.

You recently turned down an offer for a professional contract. Can you walk us through your thought process during that time?
During the last year of my A Levels, I faced a pivotal decision: should I pursue university or take the leap into professional football? I contacted an agency that led to offers from Iceland, Romania, and Canada. Just two days before the transfer window closed, I received a professional contract right after finishing my final A Level exam in mathematics. At the same time, my coach at Loughborough University invited me to join pre-season.

Becoming a professional footballer had always been my dream, and those two days were agonizing as I weighed my options. My parents in Macao encouraged me to prioritize academics, reminding me of the uncertainties in a football career due to injuries and performance issues. Deep down, I felt I still had much to learn before going pro.

Ultimately, I chose Loughborough University and its Sports and Exercise Science degree, which I had always wanted to study. Ironically, I didn’t meet the required A*AA grades, but opting for pre-season led to a foundation course that secured my place. Looking back, it was a tough choice, but I believe it was the right one for my development as both an athlete and a person.

Have the demands of your studies ever affected your passion for football? How do you maintain that love for the sport?
There are definitely days when I have to put football and training on hold to focus coursework. However, I’ve mastered time management, organizing my schedule and knowing when to say "no." Even on days I lack motivation, training is ingrained in my routine. I keep my passion alive by reflecting on my journey and setting micro goals, ensuring every session brings me closer to my aspirations.

What are your long-term goals, and what advice would you give to TIS students considering a similar path?
I’m in my first year, with two years left. I aim to become a strength and conditioning coach and have earned my Level 3 Sports Massage diploma. I also plan to start a business focused on performance and injury. My advice to TIS students is to complete a project first and apologize later—take action, prove doubters wrong, and create your own opportunities.

Outside of football and your studies, what hobbies or activities do you enjoy? How do they contribute to your overall well-being and balance in life?
I’ve learned to cook, which is now a favorite hobby. I enjoy making Chinese, Japanese, and Macanese dishes, connecting me to home. I also intern as a strength and conditioning coach for practical experience. While I have little free time, I enjoy visiting coffee shops with friends, which adds variety to my routine and keeps me ground.

If you had to choose a word or phrase to describe a TIS alumnus, what would it be?
“Think outside the box.”