For North Central men’s soccer student-athlete Eloi Niyibizi, the path to Naperville began with a love for the game and a desire to make a difference both on and off the field. Niyibizi's story is more than just goals and victories on the pitch. It leans on a deep sense of community.
 
Growing up, the Aurora, Ill. native was affiliated with the Aurora Eagles Soccer Club. It was through this club that he first developed his passion for the sport. However, as his youth career progressed and it came time to choose a college, the Covid-19 pandemic made the decision-making process challenging.
 
Niyibizi initially committed to the University of Dubuque in 2020. He played for the Spartans during the abbreviated 2021 spring season, but soon found himself longing to be closer to home. This desire prompted his transfer to North Central in the spring of 2022.
 
"I was getting homesick, and there were a lot of things going on with my family," Niyibizi said. "I just thought it would be best to start looking for colleges near where I lived, and North Central was one of those schools."
 
A NEW BEGINNING
Niyibizi's transition to North Central was not without its challenges, but he found a supportive community in the soccer program and the institution as a whole. His time at North Central was marked by ups and downs, but the coaches and teammates always knew how to bring the team together. He had nothing but praise for his new home.
 
"The coaches were great, and it felt more like a community and a family.”
 
It turned out to be a great choice. The 5-foot-10 midfielder appeared in 59 matches across three seasons for the Cardinals, totaling eight goals and 10 assists. He was an all-CCIW pick in 2022. NCC won back-to-back regular-season titles in 2022 and 2023 and CCIW Tournament titles in 2022 and 2024. Niyibizi played in the NCAA Tournament in all three of his seasons in Naperville.
 
STEPPING INTO A MENTORSHIP ROLE
One of the most fulfilling aspects of Niyibizi's journey was his involvement with the Aurora Eagles Soccer Club, where he transitioned from player to coach. As someone who has been a part of the club since his youth, coaching the younger generation became a natural progression for him.
 
"It's so rewarding watching and coaching little kids and helping them be the best they can be," Niyibizi said. "I was once in their shoes, so I try to help them understand that this time they have is limited. I want them to enjoy it as much as they can before it all comes to an end."
 
In addition to his coaching role, Niyibizi also works with the Neighbor Project, a non-profit organization in Aurora focused on affordable housing and community development. His involvement with the Neighbor Project allows him to give back to his community in a meaningful way, working on projects, coordinating volunteers, and assisting with translations for non-English-speaking families.
 
"Soccer has taught me a lot of discipline and the importance of teamwork," Niyibizi said. "These lessons translate into my work with the Neighbor Project, where I'm expected to be on my A-game and be there for others. Being a part of a soccer team has taught me not to be selfish and to work together to achieve a common goal."
 
BEYOND THE GAME
As Niyibizi looks to the future, he remains focused on finding a full-time job while staying active in the Aurora Eagles and the Neighbor Project. His passion for soccer and his desire to make a positive impact in the community continue to drive him.
 
"I've never stopped playing, and I don't want to get away from soccer," Niyibizi said. "It's something I love, and it helps me stay active. I want to keep playing and being a part of anything that involves soccer."
 
Looking ahead, Niyibizi envisions a future where both the Aurora Eagles Soccer Club and the Neighbor Project continue to grow and serve the community. He hopes to see the Aurora Eagles expand with more staff, teams, and leagues, reaching an even larger audience of young athletes. Additionally, he aspires to further establish the Neighbor Project as a respected organization in the non-profit sector, building a community that supports and uplifts its residents.
 
"Being a part of the growth of these organizations and seeing the kids and families grow with us is one of the best things about the work I do," Niyibizi said.
 
A HEARTFELT JOURNEY
Niyibizi's path is a testament to the power of sports and community to shape lives and create lasting impact. Through his experiences as a student-athlete, coach and community advocate, he embodies the values of hard work, resilience and service.
 
As he continues to navigate the post-graduation phase of his life, Niyibizi remains committed to making a difference both on and off the field.
 
In the world of sports, Niyibizi's story serves as a reminder that success is not solely measured by victories and accolades but by the positive impact we have on others and the communities we call home.