By Monte Perez

Former University of Fort Lauderdale women's basketball player, Alicia Loesch, has signed a professional contract with a Nicaraguan professional basketball team. 

Starting in September, the combo guard will be playing professionally. The team will provide her with a salary, a place to live, and daily meals. 

Loesch's stepdad ( Bryan Coats) got her a tryout with the Nicaraguan national team this summer. Alicia not only made the team, but her unit went on to win a Bronze medal. They competed against Costa Rica, Mexico, El Salvador, Panama, and Honduras. 

" Since winning the Bronze medal, I have been working out twice a day, 4-5 times a week, to prepare for the LEONA's Basketball team." Loesch also said, 

"Coach Alberto Jemperrie helped me so much. He taught me how to work hard and be a vocal leader. Coach put me in positions that I had never played before, such as point guard and power forward. I learned a great deal playing all five positions on the court because of him. He also instilled confidence in me. One of the things I will never forget was speaking at the Faith Center as an athlete representing the University of Fort Lauderdale. Talking to thousands of people on that Sunday boosted my confidence. Before that day, I was always nervous about public speaking."

Coach Alberto said of his protege," From day 1, I saw the potential in Alicia. Through our hard work, commitment, film study, and player development, she recognized her incredible talent and ability. I was fortunate to be part of her journey, and I wish her all the best in her professional career."

Alicia's goals are to lead her team in scoring this year and help the team compete for a championship. 

She wants to use this opportunity to improve her game and keep playing professionally for years to come. 

The entire UFTL family is rooting for her. 

Follow Alicia's career on Instagram: Alicia._.loesch