Florida Memorial University Athletics

Lea Valdez joined the FMU women's soccer team in fall of 2023.

A native to Miami, Fla. Valdez graduated from Archbishop McCarthy in Southwest Ranches, Fla. in 2023. Under head coach Mike Sica she won two varsity letters and had perfect attendance for the whole season. In 2022 her team were the district champion runner-ups. In 2023 her school won the district championship and were runner-up in the regional championship. Valdez attended Everglades High School from 2019-2020. She also took part in Mav Medicine, National Honor Society, and the International Club.

Valdez played for the Florida United team in Davie, Fla. for three years under head coach Coach Jeff Ayrum.

Valdez chose FMU because "what better place to be other than Miami." She loved the campus and always wanted to attend an HBCU. Her interests include:


Favorite sports team(s): Miami Hurricanes, Miami Heat, Miami Dolphins, San Diego Padres
Favorite athlete(s): Crystal Dunn, Trinity Rodman
Favorite movie(s): Fast and Furious series
Favorite TV/Streaming show(s): All American, SWAT, The Flash
Favorite vacation spot(s): Dominican Republic, Mexico, Bora Bora, California
Favorite musical artist/group: Rod Wave

Valdez's hidden talent is she can take pictures. The most influential person in her life is her mom.

Her cousin, Jaden McBurrows, plays at the University of Michigan. He is always inspiring her and  pushing her to be the best that she can be. He always reminds her of her dreams and never let anybody distract her. Valdez is Dominican and she played with the Dominican National Team.