Duran’s sense of belonging and togetherness helped her find her love of the sport, “Quickly soccer became a lifestyle and I found myself playing or being around soccer 24/7.” 

The environment she was part of also proved a major influence early in her development, during a time when she was more likely to be competing against boys her age. 

“My family and heritage influenced my career a ton,” she said. “The Mexican side [of my family] admires soccer and our tight knit bond has always been centered around our love for the game. Playing fútbol with predominantly men really inspired and influenced my style of play, my grit and determination to be the best that I could be even when I constantly heard ‘she wants to play with boys, treat her like a boy,’ which in my opinion just added fuel to my fire.” 

Now as a coach, playing with the boys has helped Duran develop her coaching mentality.  

“That same mentality has followed me into my coaching career,” she said.

“My experience with the Mexican National Team was truly a blessing,” Duran said. “Being surrounded by the best of the best and meeting teammates from all over Mexico and the United States was an unforgettable experience. The overall experience of playing and competing at the highest level in the same facility where some of the greatest Mexican soccer players who I grew up watching and idolizing was such a surreal moment for me.” 

Now, a few short years later, Duran was named the first co-Head Coach of Cargo SC as it joined the W League for its inaugural season.  

“My experience coaching Stockton Cargo was such a blessing,” said Duran. “To be a part of this historic moment for women’s soccer in our city was so special and irreplaceable. The impact that we made in just one summer was insane.” 

Bringing aboard a person not only with Duran’s qualities but background was an essential part of Cargo SC’s makeup, according to owner Lee Neves. The club’s philosophy of diversity – which runs throughout its staff – is a pillar Neves believes will play an important role in Cargo SC’s initial and future success.  

“Stockton is a majority minority city, that is 44 percent Hispanic,” said Neves. “To me it was important to build a team that was reflective of the diversity of our city. If we are going to attract the support of the fanbase that makes up the city of Stockton, we need to put a team out on the sideline and the field that reflects the blue-collar work ethic and diversity that is Stockton.”