Dianna Hermes

By John Hepokoski
UWRF Sports Information

It all started in 1992 - the Dianna Hermes soccer career that is.  

"My parents signed my sister and me up for everything," said Hermes. "I think it was just to give us something to do. I have always loved being competitive and active."

Hermes is the daughter of Harlan and Colleen and has an older sister, Shannon (21).  

Hermes favorite childhood memory is when she went up north snowmobiling with her family. They would meet up with other families and the kids would get to play.

"It was really cold, but we had fun."

Hermes attended Prior Lake High School and was a key member on the soccer and track & field teams. She earned all-conference honors in each sport and earned three soccer letters. Not only was Hermes good on the field, she also was great academically as she made the all-academic team.  

The greatest influences in Hermes life are her parents.

"They have supported and guided me through good times and bad," said the Falcon midfielder. "Both encourage me to be a good student and athlete, but save time to have fun too."

Following high school, Hermes made the choice to come to UW-River Falls to play soccer.  

"I came here because I thought I would have a chance to play soccer, I liked the campus, and it was close to home."

In her freshman season with the Falcons, Hermes recorded two goals to go along with two assists in 13 appearances. Hermes has been a solid midfielder and forward for the Falcons since her arrival.

"Dianna has been a great player for us," said Falcon Coach Sean McKuras. "She excels wherever we put her on the field."

"I have learned to put the team first," said Hermes when asked what she has learned from McKuras. "We need to play to the best of our ability and at the position that helps the team out the most. He has taught me how to really become part of the game."

"I want to gain better knowledge of the game at this level of competition," said Hermes. "I want to use my strengths to help the team and find out what works well for me."

She isn't all about being serious though. Hermes has many hobbies including snowboarding and photography which keep her busy.  

Hermes' favorite game with the Falcons was a 1-0 double overtime win over Stevens Point in last year's WIAC Playoffs. The game allowed River Falls to advance to the semifinals to face Eau Claire. The Falcons lost the game but the road to get there was exciting.  

Hockey would be Hermes choice of sport if she were not playing soccer. "It's a fun, fast paced game and I've always wanted to learn how to stop on ice, because I can't!"