Sarasota Athlete of the Week: Majestic van Ingen

Majestic van Ingen is a senior on the Riverview High girls soccer team, and kicked for the school's football team. Girls soccer Head Coach Joe St. Onge said van Ingen, a center back, helped stabilize the team's defense this season on its way to its first district title in 18 years. She also recorded 68 total points as a football kicker in 2023.

When did you start playing soccer?

I have been playing since I was 5 years old. I played rec league soccer for a while before going to club. I've been playing ever since. 

What is the appeal to you?

I like the team aspect and the amount of work it takes. You have to rely on your teammates and count on each other. You form bonds by going through hard stuff. 

What is your best skill?

Leadership. I take pride in that and in being reliable on the field. My work ethic, too. I push myself hard on and off the field, in the weight room and during conditioning. I know what it takes to perform on the field. 

What have you been working to improve?

Well, I'm playing a new position this year. I used to be a center midfielder, but my coaches have played me at center back (defense). It has been an adjustment, but I am able to help my team in a way that I could not in my previous position. My coaches have been great with feedback and showing me how to adjust to the role. The hardest thing has been seeing the field from a different perspective. 

What is your favorite soccer memory?

It is definitely winning the district championship (2-1 against North Port) this year. That was incredible. We were down 1-0, and I actually scored to tie the game off a free kick from around 40 yards out. 

What were you feeling after the district title win?

It's hard to describe. I was honestly just grateful. We have come so far as a team this year. My previous years, we have been an OK to good team. I was expecting about the same this season, but we dug deep throughout the year. I'm telling you, we worked harder than any other high school team out there. We all want to succeed so much, and you can see that in the way we play. 

Why did you want to join the school's football team?

The year before, I was volunteering with the team and doing some film work. I was just watching them and saw how incredible (the program) is. I actually told a friend, 'By this time next year, I'm going to be down there (practicing), too.' She was like, 'OK, Majestic.' But I met with Coach (Josh) Smithers soon after that and I kicked in front of the coaches. They said I was good enough. I fell in love with football after that because of how much it takes of out you, the amount of hard work you have to do. I wanted to prove that I could do it. Through spring and summer workouts, I fell in love with the process of getting better, getting stronger. The coaches have impacted my life so much. It was honestly the best experience I have ever had.

What is your favorite food?

I like pasta, any kind. I like ice cream a lot, too. 

What is your favorite school subject?

I like them all, but I'll say math. I like conceptual thinking and problem solving, and I like the challenge that math brings. 

What are your hobbies?

I like going to the beach and hanging with my friends and my family. But most of my time is for (soccer) practice. 

What is your favorite movie?

"Remember the Titans." 

Which superpower would you pick?

Flight. You could see the whole world. I think that would be cool. 

What is the best advice you have received?

Pressure is a privilege. It's an honor to be nervous about a big game or something important. Also, preparation eradicates fear of the future. That's a big thing in my life, especially when preparing for important things. 

Finish this sentence: "Majestic van Ingen is … "

Resilient. I push myself hard. I pride myself on being mentally tough and being able to bounce back.