The growth of a season often tells the story of an athlete, and for Durant senior Mia Ibarra, that story has been about resilience, connection, and belief. “My personal goals are to make All-State and to finish the season knowing I played to the best of my ability,” Ibarra said, setting the standard she holds herself to every time she steps on the field.
Team chemistry has been a defining theme for Durant this year. “Our morale started rough at the beginning, but we slowly progressed and now we’re getting better to be the best,” she explained. That improvement didn’t happen by accident. “The biggest improvement my team has had is having a better attitude with each other and treating everyone with respect,” Ibarra said, crediting the shift in mindset that has fueled their success. As a group, the goals are clear: “Some team goals are to make it to playoffs again and win it out. We always work hard at practice, and we listen to coach Cook to make us better.”
Ibarra’s versatility has been a major asset. “I started out playing goalkeeper since I was small, but I got put at holding midfield my sophomore year and I just went with the flow of it and that’s where I’m at now,” she said. “I do still play keeper if that’s where coach needs me more.” From the midfield, her vision stands out. “I look for gaps that defense has, and I see if they shift well or not,” Ibarra said. “If not then I’ll know that I’ll always have that split open to give to my forwards.”
Preparation is just as important as performance. “I make sure to stay hydrated and to eat many carbs on the day before to have the energy for the game,” she noted. Her mindset stays simple but powerful: “My mindset is to play every game as if it’s my last and to just always remember to have fun and to know that I’m capable of playing great.”
When it comes to legacy, Ibarra hopes to be remembered for heart and support. “I want my legacy to be known as me being a supportive person and to always playing my heart out,” she said.
Her favorite memory reflects that bond: “My favorite memory would be beating our rival McAlester to make it to playoffs my junior year.” After high school, Ibarra plans to attend Texas State University, pursue psychology, and earn her master’s degree—carrying the same passion and determination with her to the next level.
