Danielle Étienne - Mother, Student, and Athlete - A Glimpse of an Exemplary Woman at Only 22

Mar 28

"Yeah, I did qualify for the World Cup, but that’s not the end of it. I have more to do"

*Danielle and her son Ezekiel are pictured on the right*
Danielle ‘Dani’ Étienne is a senior majoring in Psychology, a soccer player for Fordham University and Haiti’s National Woman’s team, and she is also a new mother. Dani got started playing soccer at the young age of 4.
“I come from a long line of soccer players. My brother, my father, even my grandfather played.” Dani’s earliest memories, she remembers always being present at her father’s games. Having such a talented family as role models, it was fated Dani become a player as well. Dani reflects on her family's unwavering support throughout her soccer career,
“Being the first female in my family to play soccer, they have always made sure to drive home the idea that it’s not about one-upping the next person, but rather doing what you can.”

As a midfielder, she is known for her technical skills, agility, and vision on the field. She is a versatile player who can adapt to different positions, making her a valuable asset to both her teams. Her family's unwavering support is her strength.

“I have never had pressure from my family I just knew I have to play up to my abilities, and whatever that is, is good for me, and my family has always supported that.”

Dani began her international career with the Haitian women's national team in 2015.

Dani’s dedication and hard work have helped her overcome numerous challenges, both on and off the field. She is a role model for young players in Haiti.

“Being able to live out my dream of playing for my country is amazing. It’s different than just playing for my collegiate team. On a national team, I am playing for my entire nation. Knowing I get to represent an entire country and my family is amazing.”

In December 2022, Dani gave birth to her son Ezekiel Etienne-Armstrong. One month later, she was back training to qualify for the FIFA World Cup tournament. Dani opened up about her training regimen postpartum,

“It was hard; there were times when I didn't know if I could do it. But at the end of the day, I knew I had a dream.”

Looking ahead, Dani is excited about competing in the FIFA women’s tournament in July of this year as Haiti is placed in Group D along with China, Denmark, and England. But she is also looking forward to enjoying motherhood with her newborn son. Dani is driven and hardworking, and always looking for the next opportunity to further her success. She offered up some advice to young girls aspiring to follow their dreams.

“You just got to grind. Nothing will be handed to you, especially with being a Black woman. There are just certain hills we have to climb. When you work hard, you cannot be denied. There's nothing anybody can say to deter you from what you’re working for.”

Through her dedication and perseverance, Dani has shown that being a mother does not have to hold you back from pursuing your dreams and passions. Moreover, by being a successful athlete and a positive influence on young girls, she is setting an excellent example for not only the next generation of female soccer players, but young girls everywhere.