Makayla Rodriguez
Forward
Charlotte, N.C.
Ardrey Kell High School
Virginia Tech women’s soccer has signed Makayla Rodriguez to the 2027 recruiting class. Rodriguez, a forward from Charlotte, N.C., played club soccer with Charlotte Independence Girls Academy. She is a six-time U.S. Center ID invitee, a 2026 Girls Academy Regional and National ID invitee, and a 2025 ECNL Mid-Atlantic First Team selection. She helped Ardrey Kell win the 2025 NCHSAA 4A State Championship, scoring a brace in the championship game.
Why did you choose Virginia Tech? I chose Virginia Tech because from the first time I attended an ID camp, I knew it was a place I wanted to call home. The campus stood out to me because of its beauty and the strong sense of school pride throughout both the university and the town of Blacksburg. I loved the atmosphere, the sense of community and how welcoming everyone was. From that first visit, I could see myself thriving at Virginia Tech, making lifelong memories while growing both as a student and as an athlete.
What was your favorite thing about your visit? My favorite part of my visit was getting to experience Virginia Tech's culture firsthand. Spending time with my future teammates made me even more excited about becoming a Hokie. The players and coaches were incredibly welcoming, which made the program feel like a close-knit family. Attending the football game and experiencing the energy in Lane Stadium showed me just how passionate and supportive Hokie Nation is. Seeing the pride and excitement throughout the crowd made me feel like I was already part of the Virginia Tech community.
What excites you the most about being part of Virginia Tech women’s soccer? I’m most excited about competing at a high level and having the opportunity to play against some of the best players and teams in the country. I look forward to learning and growing alongside an amazing group of teammates and coaches while building lifelong relationships. I’m excited to contribute to the team’s success and be a part of a program with a strong tradition of excellence, both on and off the field.
What are your soccer strengths? I am a technical player who is comfortable using both feet and very competitive. I am always looking for ways to make an impact on the game, whether it's creating chances, finishing opportunities or leading through my work rate. As a finisher, I take pride in scoring goals in a variety of ways and finding the back of the net when my team needs it most. I play with confidence, determination and intensity. Defenders should be ready because I am always looking to attack and make things happen.
Who is your favorite pro player and why? My favorite pro player is Messi. I wore his cleats for a while when I started playing soccer. He is my biggest inspiration. I admire his creativity, technical ability and determination. He shows you don’t have to be the biggest or strongest player on the field to make a difference. I try to bring some of those same qualities into my own game by being competitive, technical and looking for ways to impact the match every time I step onto the field. Messi inspires me to keep chasing my goals no matter what.
What do you plan on majoring in? I plan on majoring in National Security and Foreign Affairs
What is one thing you want Virginia Tech fans to know about you? I want fans to know that I am extremely competitive and will always put the program before myself. I will bring success to Virginia Tech and make Hokie Nation proud every time I wear the jersey.
