In an exhilarating twist, a Mexican American lady, Leilani Armenta, has achieved the impressive feat of being the inaugural female kicker for the Jackson State University, a NCAA Division I Historically Black College and University. As she recently confessed, stepping out on the field for her first game on September 23 against Bethune-Cookman University filled her with nerves. Regardless, she stayed focused, intent on fulfilling her role.
Initially, Armenta merely acknowledged her participation on the field, but she later realized the magnitude: she had created history, which had significant positive impacts upon many people. Her pioneering entry into the overwhelmingly male-dominated sport wasn’t without challenges – the freshman communications major is in the process of recovering from ACL surgery from the previous year. Yet, she had dedicated this season to rigorous training and kicking while wearing a brace.
Even in the face of discomfort, Armenta demonstrated her indispensability in securing Jackson State’s 22-16 victory over Bethune-Cookman University, with her defining 25-yard kick-off near the end of the contest. Supporters and teammates alike look forward to her bringing the same level of finesse and enthusiasm to the homecoming game against Alabama State University on October 14.
Reflecting on her journey, Armenta revealed her choice of Jackson State University, known for its stellar Communications program. She had also maintained her love for sports, especially for football, since her high school days. Interestingly, it was her ability in high school that astounded her coaches at St. Bonaventure High School, Ventura, California.
As Armenta’s high school coach, Joseph Goyeneche recalled, her proficiency was unparalleled compared to any freshman kicker. Armenta’s background in soccer had sharpened her accuracy, but a tear in her ACL during her senior year in high school led to her switch to football on the advice of her doctors.
Nevertheless, she seized the chance to continue playing the sport she cherished. She indeed has made the most of her high school football career, having scored 98 out of 105 attempted extra points and scored 5 for 5 kicking field goals, the longest one being a 30-yard kick.
Currently, Armenta is making strides to augment her leg strength and range in kicking. She revealed having accomplished a 46-yard kick in practice, but has yet to try a field goal this season. Goyeneche praised her determination and skill, stating that there’s no difference between her and a male kicker.
The Jackson State University football team’s head coach, T.C. Taylor, emphasized Armenta’s key role and praised her warm welcomed by the team. He shared his awe at her performance on the field, which considerably filled a significant void in the team following injuries to their usual kicker and punter.
Despite these victories and her historical role, Armenta has encountered naysayers who believe she’s robbed a deserving male of his position. However, she remains unperturbed, attributing her ACL injury as a blessing that reinforced her love for sports. She insists she’s earned her place and intends to keep improving.
Coach Taylor echoes this sentiment, appreciating Armenta’s competitive spirit and hoping for her increased involvement as she regains her leg strength. As for Armenta, she hopes to continue with football in college and appears open to the possibility of going professional, should opportunity knock. In the midst of her incredible journey, Leilani Armenta continues to focus on the present, while at the same time, welcoming exciting prospects for her future.
