By Chandler Collins
Assistant Director for Strategic Communications

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. – Southeast Missouri Women's Soccer has been a part of Justi Nelson's life for as long as she can remember. Now in 2025, junior midfielder Nelson enters the season with goals and aspirations of her own. 
 
Earlier this Summer, Nelson was named to the 2025 Ohio Valley Conference 'Players to Watch' List as the lone representative from SEMO. A season ago, she finished with a goal and an assist in 16 matches played (15 started). She accumulated three points and had 16 shots, including eight shots-on-goal, to finish the year. 
 
Justi started nurturing her love for soccer at the tender age of four, kicking the ball around in the Cape Rec league in her hometown of Cape Girardeau.
 
From those early days, Nelson's journey has been one of growth, dedication, and the constant presence of her biggest supporters — her parents. Nelson is the daughter of former Redhawk head coach, Heather Nelson, who retired following the completion of the 2024 campaign as the only coach in the program's 26-year history (1999-2024) and her father, Paul Nelson, who was on the sidelines for 25 seasons serving 17 of those as Associate Head Coach of the Redhawks. 
 
"They have poured so much time and energy into my soccer career, which is why I have been able to compete at this level," Nelson said. "They have taught me so many life lessons through this sport and never doubted my success, even when I did. I hope to someday resemble the same drive and love for soccer they showed during their careers."
 
A LEGACY TO CARRY FORWARD
Growing up, Nelson was surrounded by talent and inspiration. She particularly admired past players of the SEMO Soccer program, such as Natasha Minor (2013-2016), Hailey Abbott (2009-12), and Meg Herndon (2009-2012).
 
"I looked up to these players since I was little, and it always pushed me to get to this level," Nelson shared. "I hope to carry on the legacy of hard work and dedication that have been pillars for this program over the last 26 years."
 
Nelson's own journey at SEMO has been filled with memorable moments, but one stands out above the rest; Scoring her first goal in the first round of the conference tournament last year against Eastern Illinois in a match that saw SEMO Soccer advance to the OVC Quarterfinal round. 
 
The joy of that moment was amplified by the presence of her teammates and her mom on the sideline.
 
MOTIVATED BY COMMUNITY
The support of the community has always fueled Nelson's passion for the game. Seeing the encouragement from the surrounding areas has been a constant motivator for her to play soccer at this level and represent SEMO.
 
"From a young age, my mom always told me if I was going to do something, do it well, and that has stuck with me," Nelson said. "I want to represent this program and community well and show other young female athletes to always strive for more."
 
Being a role model for young athletes is something Nelson takes to heart. As an aunt to two nephews and a niece, she cherishes the moments when they get to watch her play.
 
"They are my best SEMO soccer fans, and I love getting to be a role model for them," Nelson said.
 
LEADING ON AND OFF THE FIELD
Beyond the field, Nelson is deeply involved in various activities. She dedicates time to coaching lessons, spending about five hours a week doing individual lessons with girls from around the area.
 
Nelson is also a part of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) and the tutoring group in the Academic Success Center, where she helps other student-athletes excel academically.
 
"Being a part of SAAC, I get to help with events and organize our teams for those events. It's rewarding to contribute to the community that has given me so much," Nelson said.
 
As Nelson continues her journey, she remains committed to the values instilled in her by her parents, the legacy of past players, and the support of her community.
 
SEMO Soccer begins the 2025 season on Thursday, August 14, when they take on Evansville. Kickoff is slated for 6 p.m., CT. at Houck Field in Cape Girardeau, Mo.