Polk State Soccer Player Signs Scholarship to Play for New Program

LAKELAND - Excited chatter filled a Lakeland classroom Thursday as Peggy Robles took the next big step in her soccer career, signing a National Letter of Intent to play for Florida Christian College starting in its inaugural 2012-13 season.

Cameras flashed. Video cameras rolled. There were plenty of hugs and handshakes from classmates, teammates, coaches and relatives.

All the while, tears rolled down Robles' mother's cheeks.

"I am so happy for Peggy right now. I am happy that she is moving on to Florida Christian College. But I am sad that she won't be playing for Polk anymore. Peggy has grown as a person. She came to Polk as a young girl but she is leaving as a woman," said Vicki Robles.

Prior to her arrival at Polk, Peggy Robles was a four-year player under Coach John Bell at Mount Dora High School. While at Mount Dora, she was a First Team All-County all four years and a Sportsman of the Year in 2010. She set a school record for assists with 41, and was the third-leading scorer in school's history with 26 goals.

After high school, she earned a scholarship to play for Polk State, and quickly became a defensive star for Eagles. Head Soccer Coach Bill Read said Peggy shines just as bright off the field.

"She's someone you can depend on. She's been an academic and spiritual leader for the team," he said, adding that Robles has always maintained high grades and led her team in prayer before each game.

Robles, a Sorrento, Fla. native, is eager to move on and play for first-year head coach Doug Johnson and the Florida Christian College Suns.

"I get a chance to chance to make an impact and build a foundation," she said, adding she plans to major in Cross-Cultural Ministry and Journalism. 

Johnson said he looks forward to watching Robles grow in her sport even more.

"If Peggy comes in and works heard, she will have a chance to make an immediate impact for us at the forward position. She is a versatile player," he said.

"(Read) did such a great job with her."