ACCESS U and COCINA Present ‘Taking Their Shot’

ACCESS U Foundation proudly announces the release of ‘Taking Their Shot’, a new original docuseries created in collaboration with COCINA, part of Mecenas Group. Mecenas Group is a minority-owned media and editorial company that connects brands with the vibrant multicultural communities across the U.S. As the parent company of COCINA Media, it was founded with one goal in mind: to celebrate and elevate Hispanic culture through powerful storytelling. Together, ACCESS U and COCINA are shining a light on the next generation of student-athletes chasing their college soccer dreams. 

The first episode features Vanessa Cabrera, a standout goalkeeper, high school senior, and fierce competitor with a heart of gold. Her coach, Lindsey Huie, former U.S. Women’s National Team player, calls her “a teddy bear, but a monster in the goal.” Vanessa’s story embodies what ACCESS U stands for: resilience, community, and opportunity. Through ACCESS U's free college pathway program, which includes academic tutoring, college counseling, mentorship, and in partnership with Gritness, college recruiting guidance, talented athletes like Vanessa gain visibility and access to real college opportunities that can change their lives. 

This collaboration with COCINA marks just the beginning of a series that celebrates the grit and determination of young athletes across the country. Vanessa is now preparing for the Phoenix Showcase, where over 150 universities will scout their next recruits and ACCESS U will be cheering her on every step of the way.

Watch Episode 1 of “Taking Their Shot”, and explore the behind the scenes photo gallery featuring Vanessa Cabrera and Mila Russo, the star of Episode 2. Stay tuned for its upcoming release!