As the first light of dawn breaks over Helix High, the football team is already hard at work. Coach Damaja Jones leads offseason workouts at 6:30 a.m., starting in January. It’s an open invitation to the entire school, but few show up. One student, Aubrey Laue, took this opportunity seriously, showing up every morning to make her mark.
Laue, the only female in the room, was determined to elevate her game. Previously a third-string kicker, she worked tirelessly to secure a starting role this year, beating out her competitors in a preseason showdown. Her dedication and perseverance paid off when she sealed a Homecoming victory with a 27-yard field goal in the dying seconds of the game.
Laue’s journey is not without its challenges. She juggles her football dreams with a congenital heart condition, a battle that she has faced since childhood. Through surgeries and treatments, she has emerged stronger and more determined than ever.
Despite the odds, Laue shines on the field, proving that she is not just a girl who plays football but a true football player. Her courage and talent have inspired her teammates and coaches, earning her respect and admiration from all who know her story.
As Laue looks towards the future, she plans to pursue a career in medicine, specializing in pediatric cardiology. Her heart, both figuratively and literally, is set on making a difference in the lives of others. Football will always hold a special place in her heart, and she hopes to see more young girls follow in her footsteps.
To all the aspiring athletes out there, Laue’s message is clear: follow your dreams, no matter how challenging they may seem. With dedication and perseverance, anything is possible. And as Laue continues her journey, one thing is for certain—football will forever be a part of her story.
(Photo courtesy of Manorack Sukhaseum)
