By Hayden Swope
Wichita Northwest’s Liliana Hernandez has always had a love for soccer, and after years of playing goalie, her high school career has come to an end.
“I’ve been playing soccer since I was five years old, about 13 years now,” Hernandez said. “I’ve been a goalkeeper since I was around nine, and while there have definitely been moments when I considered stepping away from the game, my mom has always been my biggest supporter and motivation. Her pride in my accomplishments keeps me going.”
Learning to grow as a person and athlete on the field wasn’t always easy, but once Hernandez found a good balance and rhythm, she fell in love with the game all over again.
“Before the club season with Sporting, I felt somewhat burnt out and wasn’t initially planning to play college soccer,” Hernandez said. “It took some convincing to keep going, but I’m glad I did. While it wasn’t my strongest season, I continued to compete and grow, especially in terms of foot skills and confidence with the ball, thanks to new training styles and team dynamics.”
Going into the year with a list of goals, Hernandez decided to prove herself through any and all challenges and obstacles the team might’ve faced this season.
“Heading into my senior year of high school, my teammates and I knew it would be a rebuilding year after losing a large group of seniors,” Hernandez said. “Still, we embraced the challenge, especially since for many of us, this would be our final competitive season. I stepped up as a leader on the team and have seen real growth, particularly in my on-field communication. We focused on making a strong postseason push, with goals set on reaching and winning regionals.”
