Varsity girl defies gender roles

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By Marcus Hunt

Standing on the sidelines, Aubrey Madden, 12, waits for an opportunity to kick during the home game against Arbor View. The shut out game prevented it from happening. Photo by Rachel Rosse
Standing on the sidelines, Aubrey Madden, 12, waits for an opportunity to kick during the home game against Arbor View. The shut out game prevented it from happening.
Photo by Rachel Rosse

Senior, Aubrey Madden, has broken a gender barrier at Coronado High School. She is the first female kicker to make the varsity football roster since 2004. Madden kicks field goals and extra points on the football team as well as playing club soccer for Las Vegas Premier Soccer Club. Challenges arise naturally as the two sports coincide seasonally. From playing early morning soccer games to long football practices in the evening, stress and exhaustion becomes rampant.

Q: What made you decide to play football this year?

A: I have known Coach Cofer for about 10 years and he and his family have always messed with me about kicking, so I decided since I play club soccer I would kick for football too!

Q: How do you feel about being the only girl on the team and what challenges have been presented to you because of it?

A: At first I was nervous, but now I’m comfortable with all the boys. They are all so welcoming! It is challenging to keep up with the boys when doing fitness drills. Another challenge I face as the only girl is being taken seriously by the coaches and the players. But at this point I feel I have gained their respect.

Q: What has been the best thing about football and what has been the worst so far?

A: The most boring thing, for sure, is standing on the sidelines during practice. The best is going to be when I get to go in the game and put some points on the scoreboard!

Q: Would you ever recommend other girls trying out for the team?

A: I definitely would recommend other girls giving football and other traditionally “guy sports”  a try if they have something to contribute and are willing to work hard.