Jatzelle Salazar-Lopez '20 Recruiting Profile

Growing up in a low income family has taught me to work hard in order to achieve my goals. Since I was a little girl I was very competitive and athletic, however my parents could not afford club sports so I played every sport available to me in school; soccer, softball, volleyball, basketball, flag football, and even wrestling. Although challenging and fun, it wasn’t until my 7th grade year when water polo was first introduced that I realized I had found my passion.

Entering 7th grade, the Madera Unified School district approved water polo as a middle school sport. All 4 middle schools in Madera were combined in order to have enough players for one team to be able to compete. As newly formed team we took 2nd place and 1st the following year. Going into High School, I was the only player from that team that belonged to Madera South High, the rest of the team belonged to Madera North High. At this point I had a huge decision to make. Do I transfer schools to increase my chance at a championship title or do I stay at my school and work twice as hard not only for me, but for my entire team?  

My choice was clear and definite, I would stay with my school for a couple of reasons. One big reason being loyalty. I cannot turn my back on a team that needs me, to go to another just for personal gain. I believe this was the best choice that I could have made because although I may not have Valley Championship rings, but I have the satisfaction of knowing I have made an impact on an entire team by motivating them to work hard and never give up. I am a team player and in hard times I know how to pick my team and myself back up. 

I practice hard with my team and with the varsity boys when possible. I also participated with the varsity boys team in a tournament to cover for their injured goalie. This was a great experience for me, being the only female in an all male tournament gave me a new perspective on how the game is played.

Although I cannot afford a personal trainer I have been very fortunate to meet people who have taken interest in me and have given me some great advice on how to improve my game. I am eager to continue on the path to reach my full potential. As I enter my senior year I feel the excitement of becoming a 1st generation college student and athlete. This gives me, my family and those who have supported me great pride and joy.