When Raigan Jager first heard the news, she was surprised. For the MiraCosta College soccer standout, learning she had been named not only Defensive Player of the Year but also the Conference Player of the Year was the perfect way to cap off a memorable college career.
"I was just playing for fun," she reflected, a statement that perhaps best captures the unexpected journey that brought her to MiraCosta's soccer program.
Originally committed to a Division I program, Raigan instead opted to pursue a different path in higher education. Having grown up in Encinitas, Raigan knew about MiraCosta College and its footprint in the region. So when her older sister, who was a volleyball player on campus, spoke about how strong the athletic programs were, Raigan’s ears perked up.
Raigan, who had grown up with a dream to play college soccer, knew MiraCosta College might be the perfect fit. After doing some research, she called Coach Matt Hall at the time, who shared that he had an open spot for Raigan on the team. It was meant to be.
The transition wasn't without its challenges, though.
"I was really nervous going into preseason training with the team," she recalled. "I didn't know a single person on the team, and a lot of the other players grew up together."
But those nerves quickly dissipated during the first team meeting, as the returning players created a welcoming atmosphere that would become characteristic of her entire MiraCosta experience.
During Raigan’s first season, the MiraCosta College women’s team was one of the best the school has ever seen. And despite its success and talents, the team didn’t have to battle with the demands and stresses that Raigan heard from her friends at other division one university programs. The pressure-free environment fostered by Coach Hall, combined with the emphasis on team bonding through trips and activities, created a perfect balance of competitive athletics and an enjoyable college experience.
“I loved every minute of it,” shared Raigan. “Everyone at MiraCosta College, from the players in other sports to the athletic trainers and the professors, is so supportive and makes you feel like family.”
Taking online classes, Raigan established a routine that allowed her to work, practice, and study effectively.
"I got into a good rhythm," she explains. "I would wake up, go to work, go to practice, do school at night." Team study halls provided additional support, helping her maintain academic excellence alongside athletic achievement.
On the field, Raigan thrived. After excelling as a forward in her first year in 2023, she transitioned to defense in her second season. The move showcased her versatility and contributed to the team's second consecutive conference championship. Raigan was proud of her performance at defense, but never did she think it would result in a Conference Player of the Year Award, especially considering the high-scoring achievements of her teammates. Yet despite the accolades, Raigan is quick to point out the memories beyond individual trophies – from beating rivals Southwestern College at home to celebrating back-to-back conference championships with the team.
With only a few credits left to complete her associate’s degree, Raigan is preparing for life beyond soccer. She already has plans to pursue a real estate license and, unsurprisingly, Raigan is approaching her future with the same determination that marked her athletic career.
“I’m so excited to start the next chapter of my life,” shared Raigan. “I will miss the welcoming environment at MiraCosta College, but I know that it will never be far away thanks to the lifelong friends I made while here.”
Raigan’s journey from nervous newcomer to Conference Player of the Year serves as a reminder that sometimes the unexpected path leads to the best destination. Through MiraCosta's athletic program, she found not just sporting success but a supportive community that allowed her to thrive both on and off the field.