Zivana Labovic - Praying for a Sign

Michigan State midfielder Zivana Labovic has made her impact known in East Lansing since joining the Spartans. After starting all 23 games her freshman season in 2021-21, Zivana saw her role continue to grow as she started all 18 matches of the fall 2021 season, and appeared in 20 games while making 4 starts during her junior season. As she prepares for her senior year with the Spartans, she looks to give back to those around her and use her platform for God’s glory.

Zivana grew up in a family that she says always prioritized religion, with her and her family attending church regularly and practicing Serbian Orthodox Christianity. Although it was always a part of her life, Zivana says she saw it become more important than ever as she was in the recruiting process and trying to figure out where she should go.

“Over the course of a very long year getting recruited by different schools it came down to two – and of course I couldn’t decide on one. I knew that God had a plan for me, I just didn’t know exactly what it was at the time. My sister kept urging me to pray, pray, and of course pray some more. So that’s exactly what I did. I prayed for a sign, or something to make this process more clear for me.”

Zivana says that proved to be just what she needed, as three weeks went by and she knew that Michigan State was her home. Although it wasn’t always an easy journey, she says that process taught her to always trust in God’s plan.

“I realized that even when we don’t know what’s next, God always does, and He’ll always make sure we get there. Since then I’ve continued to spend time growing in my faith and relying on God through everything.”

Now getting ready for her senior season, Zivana looks to help the Spartans to a Big Ten Championship. When she takes the field, she says that faith plays a role in every aspect of her career.

“Whether it be dealing with adversity from injuries or tough games, I constantly rely on God to give me the strength to face my obstacles. I play every game and practice with the knowledge that He is my Audience of One, and that at the end of the day I’m playing to honor Him and His glory, and nothing else. God gave me the gift of being physically able to play soccer, and be good at it as well, so everyday I thank God for my abilities and the opportunity to play at the top level.”

Throughout her collegiate career, Zivana has seen her platform grow and looks to use her gifts to share her faith and what God has done in her life. When talking about impact, Zivana says that she hopes hers extends far beyond just the soccer field.

“With the platform I have, I hope to spread the word of God through my words, actions, and social media presence. I want people to see God through me and my sport. I wouldn’t be where I am without Him, or be able to have the platform I have. So I choose to use it to honor God to the best of my abilities.”

Now in her 4th year with Michigan State, Zivana says that choosing East Lansing is the best decision that she could’ve made. Looking to come back stronger than ever in the upcoming season, Zivana will be inspiring lives both on and off the field through her words and actions for years to come.