MINOT, N.D. - For Becca Sargent, soccer has always been a central part of her life.

From Kensington, London to Minot State University, her journey has been shaped by hard work, setbacks, and a clear sense of purpose.

Now a goalkeeper for the Beavers, Sargent is studying business management with a minor in computer information systems while continuing to grow as both a player and a leader. After competing at a high level in England and at Laramie County Community College, she brought experience and determination with her to Minot.

University Communications sat down with Sargent to talk about her path to Minot State, her experience as a student-athlete, and what drives her moving forward.

You're originally from England. How did your soccer journey start there?
BS: I was around 10 when I started playing football. I began as an outfield player, but my older brother was a goalkeeper, so I wanted to be better than him. I was also taller than most people, so moving into goal made sense.

I also played netball at a high level, so I had to choose between the two sports. I went to a sports school that helped students come to America. Around that time, my team was picked up by a semi-pro club under Hashtag United, and I moved up to the first team at 17. I also went on loan to Dulwich Hamlet and gained a lot of experience there.

In my last school game, I tore my ACL. During that time, I realized how much I needed football in my life, and that's what pushed me to come to the U.S.

What was your experience playing at Laramie County Community College before transferring to Minot State?
BS: It was a really important time for me. I was named captain within a few weeks, which helped my confidence a lot. We had a strong season and made it to the national tournament.

One game that stands out was when we tied a ranked team in preseason, and I had 14 saves. That helped me grow as both a player and a leader.

I had strong support from Ashley Gahartt, James Miller, Angela Davis, and Dr. Joe Schaffer. My host family, Scott and Megan Fox, also meant a lot to me. They made being far from home easier.

What made you decide to come to Minot State?
BS: It happened really fast. After I was contacted, I made my decision within about 22 hours. Chris Logan (former Minot State head women's soccer coach) being English stood out to me, and everything he said matched how I see the game. I also talked to players on the team, and everything felt right. It seemed like a place where I could fit in and grow.

What has been your favorite moment so far playing for the Beavers?
BS: Two games stand out. The first was against Concordia St. Paul early in the season. I had just broken my fingers the week before, so I wasn't sure how it would go. I made seven saves and we won 1 to 0, which was our first win.

The second was also against CSP in the playoffs. I had 11 saves and stopped a penalty in the shootout. Even though we lost, it's still one of the most memorable games I've played.

You were named NSIC Goalkeeper of the Week. What did that recognition mean to you?
BS: It meant a lot, especially coming off those performances. It showed that the work I've been putting in is paying off.

At the same time, I think there are teammates who deserve recognition too. There are players who do a lot that people don't always see, and I'd love for them to get that attention as well.

How would you describe this year's team and the culture within the program?
BS: This team has been really special. We had a lot of new players, and not many people expected much from us. We didn't start well, but once we found our rhythm, everything changed.

We finished strong in conference and proved a lot of people wrong. A big part of that is our culture. We worked to build it in preseason and carried it through the season.

I also want to mention Adam Daley. He has been a big part of the program and plays a huge role in bringing people together and pushing us.

What are you studying at Minot State?
BS: I'm studying business management with a minor in computer information systems.

How do you balance school and soccer?
BS: It's always changing, so you have to stay flexible. During the season, I use time on the bus and in hotels to get work done.

Communication with professors is really important. Our schedule is busy with early practices and lifts later in the day, so it's about using your time well. It can be a lot, but I like being busy.

What do you enjoy doing outside of soccer?
BS: I like doing creative things. I write poetry, draw, and paint, and I've even designed tattoos. I won a scholarship from a poem I wrote.

I also enjoy being active outside. I like walking, running, and cycling. At one point, I was cycling up to 30 kilometers a day just for fun.

What has it been like living in Minot and the U.S. compared to England?
BS: There are a lot of differences. The weather in Minot is much colder than London. The lifestyle is different too. In the U.S., people drive everywhere, and there are more chain businesses. In England, there are more local shops. One thing I notice a lot is how different going out to eat is. In England, you stay longer and focus more on the time together. Here it feels quicker.

What are your goals for the future, in soccer or beyond?
BS: My main goal right now is to make it to nationals and leave something behind at Minot State.

I don't look too far ahead. I focus on what's in front of me and take things one step at a time.

What advice would you give to students who are far from home or thinking about going far away for school?
BS: It's hard at first, but it's worth it. You will get homesick, and that's normal. Lean on the people around you and don't be afraid to put yourself out there. Go to events and meet people, even if it feels uncomfortable at first.

Is there anything people don't know about you that you'd like to share?
BS: I have an identical twin sister back home in England. Everything I do is for her. Being away from her is hard, but she's my biggest supporter, and I'm really grateful for her.

Why have you chosen to stay at Minot State?
BS: This team feels like family. That's the biggest reason. I also really appreciate the support we've had, especially from Jordan Boisner this semester. She stepped up when we needed it, and that meant a lot to all of us.

As Sargent continues her journey at Minot State, her focus stays on growth, both on the field and in the classroom. With her mindset and determination, her impact on the program is far from over.