By Derrick Smith

The people that we choose to surround ourselves with can have a big impression on the person that we become. Athletes are no different. If they have people around them that motivate them and encourage them, they work harder and get better. On the other hand, if they have people around them that get them to do things other than work, they probably will not see as much progress. 

Rubiann Aldana is a junior at Lawton MacArthur High School. She plays goalkeeper on the school soccer team. She says that she owes a lot of her success to the people that have helped her during her career. 

“Nate Inger and Marcus Williams are the role models that I look up to,” she said. “They support me on and off the field, and always believe in me even when I don’t believe in myself. Also, coach Baker has played a big role in my career. He is always pushing me to my fullest ability and guiding me in the right direction. I am also thankful for Michelle Crawford for always being there when I need her.”

Soccer has been a part of Aldana’s life for about eight years and she says that over that time, it has taken a lot of work personally for her to be the athlete she is today. 

“I have put in a lot of hard work and dedication,” she said. “Although it may not be the easy thing to do, the hard work and extra practice are what helps you become your best.”

There have been a lot of great moments that Rubiann has enjoyed over the years. But out of all of them, there is one team achievement that stands out the most. 

“The highlight moment of my career is when we made it to the semifinals of the state tournament last year,” she said. “It was a great feeling to make it that far because we played so well as a team, and we worked hard, and it was good to see the work pay off.”