Nikki Driesse

Nikki Driesse

Nikki Driesse's soccer story kicked off early, leading to a standout playing career and now a solid spot in coaching at the college level. She graduated from Penn State in 2017 with a degree in Recreation, Park and Tourism Management, where she spent two years on the Nittany Lions' women's team—captaining her senior year and earning All-Big Ten First Team honors, plus spots on the Big Ten All-Tournament Team and NSCAA All-Great Lakes Region Second Team. That season, she topped the team in assists and scored a game-winner in the NCAA Tournament opener against Bucknell.

Before Penn State, Nikki started at Florida State, playing a key role in back-to-back NCAA Division I National Championships—first as a freshman starting nearly every game and picking up All-ACC Freshman Team nods, then as a sophomore helping secure another title. Her youth days included stints on the U.S. U-17 and U-20 National Teams, and professionally, she got drafted by the Orlando Pride in the NWSL, suited up for Sky Blue FC, and represented Puerto Rico against Uruguay.

Shifting gears to coaching, Nikki guided Northern Highlands High School to league titles in 2019 and 2020, plus a state sectional final. Since joining NYU as Assistant Women's Soccer Coach in 2021, she's focused on recruiting and developing attackers, helping the Violets rack up impressive seasons—like a 12-3-6 record in 2024 with a Sweet 16 run, and earning USC Region IV Staff of the Year honors in 2023 alongside her colleagues. With her firsthand experience from elite competition and a knack for building teams, Nikki brings real insight to women's soccer gear, training tips, and getting more folks into the game.

X

Woman smiles while tying her boots, sitting outside a tent in a grassy field. Camping gear nearby.
By William Flaiz September 24, 2025
New to camping? Discover top women’s camping gear for 2025—easy 4-person tents, comfy air mattresses, and cots for beginners. Shop now!
A woman is swinging a golf club on a golf course.
By William Flaiz August 10, 2025
Nervous about starting golf? Discover simple mental tricks to conquer beginner jitters and build confidence on the course. Shop women’s golf gear and start swinging today!
A woman is sitting in a lotus position on a golf course.
By William Flaiz August 9, 2025
Discover why golf is perfect for women 40+: gentle fitness, joint-friendly exercise, and new friendships. Plus beginner gear picks!
There are many different types of fire starters in this picture.
By William Flaiz July 21, 2025
Discover the top compact campfire kits for beginners. Expert reviews, safety tips, and easy setup guides. Perfect gifts for new campers. Start your fire adventure!
Three notebooks are sitting next to each other on a white background.
By William Flaiz June 12, 2025
Find the perfect wildlife tracking journal for birding, nature study & homeschool. Compare waterproof options, guided formats & field-ready designs. Expert picks inside!
A person is sleeping in a red hammock in the woods.
By William Flaiz June 7, 2025
Find the perfect lightweight folding hammock for hiking, small spaces, and travel. Expert reviews of budget-friendly options under $75. Compare features now!
A woman is kneeling on a baseball field holding a glove.
By William Flaiz May 29, 2025
Find the perfect girls softball cleats with our expert guide. Compare Nike, New Balance & Under Armour options for every budget and skill level. Shop smart!
A group of people are sitting around a campfire at night.
By William Flaiz May 10, 2025
Discover the best compact campfire kits for hassle-free outdoor cooking and warmth. Perfect for camping beginners and makes an excellent gift for outdoor enthusiasts!
A group of books about wildflowers are sitting next to each other on a table.
By William Flaiz April 26, 2025
Discover the best pocket-size plant ID guides for hiking, foraging, and nature education. Waterproof options, laminated field cards, and beginner-friendly picks.
Glow in the dark ping pong balls with a wooden handle
By William Flaiz April 26, 2025
Find the best glow-in-the-dark tent stakes to light up your campsite! Compare top picks for budget, durability, and brightness. Never trip again. Shop now!
Show More