One of the 2024 spring sports is rugby. Rugby is a ball-and-field game where a ball is both kicked and held. Not to be confused with American football, rugby uses a regular round ball, and originates in England. One of ALHS’ seniors, Lillian Hernandez, is a team member for this sport, and she describes rugby to be a mixture of soccer and football. Hernandez’s position for this year is still unknown but last year she started as a jumper and then moved up to a flanker. A jumper is someone who is lifted by two of their teammates while they try to catch the ball that is being thrown. Meanwhile a flanker is a person who competes for the ball against the opposing team in a scrum. Hernandez got into rugby through other girls who were already members. She was also influenced by her brother, Jessie Hernandez, who also played for a few years.
“This is my senior year so I want it to be the best we can possibly make it,” said Hernandez.
A highlight in Hernandez’s rugby career is being able to tackle the biggest and strongest girls on the opposing team.
“It honestly makes you feel proud and satisfied to be able to help your team in ways others can’t,” said Hernandez. “Everyone usually congratulates you as it’s something hard to do.”
Another proud moment of Hernandez is being nominated to make all state by other league coaches. Coaches nominate their players if they think you made a strong impact on the team. All-state players are exemplary in four areas: character, ability, skill and commitment.
Although an exemplary team player, Hernandez still had challenges she had to face. She had trouble trusting her teammates, afraid that her teammates were not going to be there for her when she had the ball or when she is about to be tackled. But Hernandez overcame this fear by growing a deeper connection with her teammates at practices and by working together.
“You need to grow that trust with your teammates to know that they will be there for you when you get tackled or get the ball,” said Hernandez.
Hernandez hopes for a winning season and to have some fun.