For over 20 years, Tania has been a driving force in the soccer community—first as a standout player, and now as a coach dedicated to shaping the next generation. Her impact goes beyond the field, instilling character, leadership, and academic excellence in her athletes. She’s opened doors to college and professional opportunities, mentors up-and-coming coaches, and continues to inspire through her relentless dedication. Tania’s legacy is one of empowerment, growth, and lasting influence on the beautiful game.
1. What inspired you to first get involved in soccer, and what keeps you passionate about it today?
I first got involved in soccer when I was seven years old. My mom and dad signed me up with the city. What drew me in was how much fun it was to run, play, and compete, but over time, it became much more than just a game. Soccer gave me structure and kept me out of trouble—it became a positive outlet and a way to stay focused. After losing my dad at twelve years old things felt out of control. Soccer was the one thing that made me feel I could control my own outcome.
Being a goalkeeper gave me an edge; anything in that box was mine. The goal was my sanctuary, and no one could reach it. I also played on the field creating plays and reading the game was an exhilarating rush of excitement. I fell in love with the beautiful game.
-Tania Nieblas
2. What does leadership in soccer mean to you personally?
Leadership in soccer encompasses life and brings out the best in you, both on and off the field.
3. What’s your standout moment either as a player, coach, administrator or in another role?
One of my standout moments as a coach isn’t tied to a single game or trophy—it’s been watching the long-term growth of the players I started coaching when they were just 5 or 6 years old. Seeing them now as young adults, some playing at Division 1 or Division 2 schools, and even a few going professional, brings me a deep sense of pride. What means the most to me is that many of them still reach out—asking for advice, looking for guidance, or just checking in. Their parents also call to thank me for the role I played in their development, both on and off the field. Knowing I had a positive impact on their journey is the most rewarding part of coaching for me.
5.If you weren’t actively participating in the development of youth soccer, what do you think you’d be doing instead?
Ever since I was 14, I’ve been determined to coach after being inspired by one of the coaches from the 99 Women’s Soccer Team. Their experiences and stories ignited a passion within me, and I can’t imagine not being a part of soccer.
6.What are you most excited about for the future of women’s soccer?
I’m most excited about the growing global recognition and investment in women’s soccer. The talent and passion have always been there, and now the world is finally starting to pay attention. I’m excited to see, future generation of girls grow up with even more role models, opportunities, and belief that they can play professionally and make a real impact in the sport.
7. Who has been the most influential person in your soccer journey, and why?
The most influential people in my soccer journey have been the coaches who never gave up on me. Regardless of my circumstances, whether financial or lacking support, they always found a way to get me onto the pitch or court and continued to challenge me mentally, physically, and emotionally. This preparation has equipped me for the real world beyond the pitch.
Coach Debbie, for instance, always made sure I didn’t feel less than. She made sure I always had what I needed: equipment, support, rides to practice, etc. Coach Bernadette pushed me to my limits and helped me transform my anger into passion, my weakness into a lesson, and my obstacles into opportunities. Coach Katrina accepted me for who I was and always saw more in me than I could see in myself. She never let me fall short of her expectations. She showed me there was more to the world than what was in front of me. These coaches are the reason I care so much for my players because they demonstrated to me that growth doesn’t end at the white line or court. It stops when they can stand on their two feet, confident and strong, knowing that they have a support system behind them, even if it’s just a few people.
8.If you had to form a 3v3 team of past and present female soccer players, what would be your pick?
My 3v3 team would have to be Mia Hamm, Martha Vieira and Michelle Akers
9.An angel investor has offered you $1m to grow the game of women’s soccer, how would you invest this money?
To foster the future of girls’ soccer, I would use the 1 million dollars to establish a coaching facility and scholarships. This initiative would empower girls to develop not only as exceptional athletes but also as resilient and confident leaders both on and off the field. By eliminating financial constraints, we can ensure that these young women receive comprehensive training and support, enabling them to reach their full potential.
10.Can you share a piece of advice for the future generation of women who are passionate about a career in soccer?
My advice for future generations of female coaches is to not chase money or the next big thing. If you love the sport and all that it has helped you achieve and become, share that with our next generation of players. Show them how the love and passion for the game can shape them into great players and even better human beings. Prepare them for the future, and that will fill your heart with the greatest reward you will ever need—joy and the satisfaction of leaving them with an impression of your legacy.
11.If you could be remembered for one contribution to the game, what would it be?
If I could be remembered for one contribution to the game, it would be for the impact I had on players’ lives beyond the field. I want to be known as a coach who helped shape not just better athletes, but better people—someone who provided guidance, support, and a positive influence during crucial stages of their development. Whether they went on to play professionally, earn scholarships, or simply became strong individuals, knowing I played a role in their journey is what matters most to me. That’s the legacy I’d like to leave in the game.
12.What’s one change you would love to see in women’s soccer in the next 5 years?
I would be thrilled to see the elimination of financial constraints, allowing girls worldwide to access the same opportunities regardless of their financial circumstances.
13.If you could play a match anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Madrid, Spain
14.If you could switch places with any player ‘past or present’ for a day, who would it be?
I would want to switch places with Pele
15.If you could invent a new soccer rule for fun, what would it be?
Power Play Goal” Rule
Rule: Once per half, a team can activate a Power Play for 2 minutes where any goal scored counts as two goals instead of one.
16.What’s a fun fact about yourself that most people don’t know?
Fun Fact: I played three sports in high school: volleyball, soccer, and softball.
17.What song would you choose as a soundtrack to your life right now?
Headstrong -Trapt
18.What’s your favorite quote?
You can’t just beat a team, you have to leave a lasting impression in their minds so they never want to see you again. -Mia Hamm