Chasing Success On and Off the Field: Adrianna Pepe

When Adrianna Pepe arrived at USC Upstate, she wasn't just chasing soccer victories but also pursuing a lifelong dream of becoming a nurse.

Now, as she wraps up her redshirt junior year, Pepe has become a cornerstone of the Spartans' defense while balancing the rigorous demands of a nursing program.

Hailing from Mantua, New Jersey, Pepe began her collegiate career at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). However, the transition was challenging.

"My club coach was really involved in the recruiting process, which was a tremendous help to me," Pepe recalled. "I really enjoyed the campus at UMBC, but I came into my first year injured, and I think it all just got off on the wrong foot."

Although the experience wasn't what she hoped for athletically or academically, Pepe cherishes her time with the Retrievers. "I have zero regrets about going to UMBC. I loved and still talk to my teammates from there today, but I needed a fresh start," she said.

After her freshman year, Pepe entered the transfer portal. That's when she reconnected with USC Upstate head coach Sharif Saber through her club coach.

"While in the portal, I had a conversation with Sharif, and I could feel his passion for Upstate," she said. "I felt like I was coming home to a place I had never been before."

Since joining the Spartans, Pepe has made a significant impact. Over three seasons, she has accumulated 55 appearances, nearly 40 starts, and more than 3,200 minutes for the green and white. Her contributions have helped lead the program to a remarkable 30-14-12 record.

"We want to build a legacy here," Pepe said. "We came so close last year, and this year, we finished our revenge tour to the championship." The Spartans' impressive 10-5-4 season included a run to the Big South Championship game and an NCAA tournament berth.

Pepe credits the program's culture and leadership for fostering her success. "Coach Saber and the overall program have created a different atmosphere—they make it extremely comfortable for players to succeed here," she explained.

Pepe's journey is as much about determination off the field as it is on it. As a nursing student, her schedule is relentless, often filled with classes, clinicals, and practice.

"My recovery days were often my clinical days," she joked, recalling how she'd haul scrubs and soccer gear in her backpack for hospital shifts in Greenville, 30 minutes away. "There were days where they coincided, and I really thought about wearing my shin guards under my scrubs."

Despite the challenges, Pepe thrives in the dual role of athlete and nursing student, thanks to the support of her coaches and professors. "It's my dream to be a nurse, and now I can do it while playing a sport I love," she said.

Head Coach Sharif Saber lauded her influence on the team. "Age reflects on a daily basis what it means to be a caring teammate. Whether taking time to comfort a struggling teammate or teaching them with her experience, Adrianna constantly strives to improve herself and her teammates."

For Pepe, the connections she's built at USC Upstate are as meaningful as the championships. "We look out for each other here. Be your sister's keeper—this is a family," she said.

To future Spartans, Pepe offers this advice: "If you are looking to win championships, pursue your academic dreams, and be part of a program that fiercely supports you, that's Upstate Soccer."

As Pepe continues to defend goals on the field and work toward saving lives off it, she will never forget the championship season and what's just getting started at Upstate women's soccer.

Players Mentioned

Adrianna Pepe

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