Kianna Burgos

Kianna Burgos is poised to have a big senior year after getting her kicks playing big city soccer and instruction from legends of the game she loves.

The Villages High School junior trained under former English professional footballer Alan Smith and former Scotland pro Gary Teale at the XL Academy in Orlando, as well as Rollins College coaches Luke Borden and Alex Mathias. 

She also elevated her game by gaining valuable experience as first-string goalkeeper for the FC Miami City USLW Reserve team in 2023.

As she heads into her senior year, Kianna is eager to continue a family tradition. 

“I grew up loving the game of soccer,” she says. “My dad and grandpa played the game.” 

Kianna’s family moved from Houston and settled in Central Florida a few years ago. 

As a freshman, she played for Tavares High School before receiving a scholarship to join XL Academy. 

Kianna has transitioned from goalie — a position she has played her entire life — to a forward and midfielder at the high school level. She excelled at the wing position, and you’d never guess that she hasn’t ever played most of those positions until this season. 

“We had two great goalies at The Villages this past season with senior Taylor Fugate, who I look up to, and Bailey Keller, who is also a senior,” Kianna says. “We decided it was best to try open field positions this season, and I fell in love with it. I give 110% no matter what I do. I was all-in on being the best player I could possibly be this season and learning as much as possible to help the team in any way I could.”

She certainly learned a lot in a very short period of time. Learning things quickly comes naturally to Kianna, who intends to play in college, where she wants to study to become an athletic trainer. 

“I would really love to go to college and plan on becoming an athletic trainer while continuing to pursue my athletic career,” Kianna says.

Asked about what she likes most about playing the game, she says: “I enjoy playing with my girls. I love the camaraderie with the team and winning games. It makes high school fun, and I appreciate every moment of it.”

Asked what advice she would give to aspiring high school athletes, she replies: “Confidence is ideal in any sort of situation. The more confidence you have, the better you can be as an individual. When I feel confident, it helps me play better. And if I can show confidence to my teammates, it helps them as well.” 

Kianna also credits her family for her success. 

“I am so grateful for my parents and family who support me,” she says. “For all the guidance they have always given me to allow me to be where I am in life. They mean the world to me.”