Christina Burkenroad: A Journey of Resilience and Passion
Christina Burkenroad, a standout soccer player recognized in the Mexican women’s league, astonished many when she seamlessly blended into a casual pickup game under the Coronado Bridge in San Diego’s Barrio Logan during her summer break in 2019. Just months ahead of her rise to fame, she didn’t arrive with the airs of a celebrity but rather as a regular participant enjoying the sport she loves. Her past experiences, characterized by remarkable resilience, traced back to her challenging teenage years—years filled with adversity that shaped her determination and skills on the pitch.
Overcoming Adversity
Before her rise as a major player for the Monterrey club in Liga MX Femenil, Burkenroad faced homelessness during her junior year of high school, grappling with the profound impact of being without stable housing alongside her single father, who struggled with mental health and employment challenges. In her reflections on those times, Burkenroad describes a tumultuous childhood marked by uncertainty and chaos, yet found solace in soccer, a constant in her life that kept her grounded.
“Soccer was my sanctuary, my safe place,”
she shared, highlighting its importance amidst the disarray of her daily existence.
As a Mexican-American child who lost her mother to ALS at a young age, Burkenroad grew increasingly aware of her precarious situation as she watched her father grow mentally and emotionally drained. They transposed from North Carolina back to San Diego in search of stability, only to face eviction and ultimately, a phase of living in an SUV parked near the beach.
“The money just ended up running out,”
she recounted, a stark reminder of the realities many face but few are willing to discuss.
Finding Strength Through Soccer
Yet, in this dark period, Burkenroad’s passion for soccer flourished. Immersed in the sport, she would often kick a ball while attending her older brother’s youth games, eventually progressing to play on boys’ teams. Her natural athleticism and dedication led her to catch the attention of her high school coaches, resulting in a remarkable high school athletic career where she became the leading scorer at Mission Bay High and garnered two-time All-League honors.
Despite her successes on the field, Burkenroad was acutely aware of the disparity between her life and those of her teammates, many of whom enjoyed privileges she could only dream of. She battled with feelings of inadequacy, often seeking escape through unhealthy habits. However, a transformative moment came when she resolved to break free from that cycle, adopting a mindset of “better every day” and starting to reach out for help. It was at this time that she found support from Stacey Haerr, who took her in during a vulnerable moment, providing stability and a safe haven at her home.
A Rising Star
With the backing of her community and newfound structures in her life, Burkenroad’s story gained attention, eventually leading a local newspaper to feature her as an emerging star. As she surpassed her high school achievements, scoring 93 goals and earning accolades, funding from her supportive community allowed her to leave behind her past of theft for survival. While college pathways seemed daunting, a dedicated coach recognized her talent, paving the way for her successful recruitment at Cal State Fullerton, where she continued to break records and shine in collegiate soccer.
Professional Journey and Personal Growth
Burkenroad’s professional journey encapsulated numerous moves across leagues and countries—from the NWSL in the U.S. to teams in Europe—each hold unique challenges and growth. In 2020, a pivotal message opened the door to her current success when she was invited to play in Mexico. With this new beginning, Burkenroad embraced a more technical playing style, adapting her game and exceeding her own expectations.
Her journey has not only defined her as a player but also as a person who continually strives for balance and growth. Living a life now enriched by familial relationships and personal well-being, Burkenroad marvels at her transformation. Celebrating the memories of her past and honoring her mother during Dia de los Muertos, she has built an altar, symbolizing her connection to her Mexican heritage and the women who have impacted her life.
Looking Ahead
Now, as she competes with the ambition of clinching another championship, Burkenroad looks back at her past with gratitude, acknowledging the support system that uplifted her.
“I’ve really grown into myself where I love just having a, quote-unquote, boring life,”
she reflects. This evolution marks not only her success as an athlete but also as an empowered individual who is finally able to navigate life with a sense of peace and purpose.
