Mariah the Motivator

By: Chloe Shapkauski, BDTV 228 Sports Multimedia Intern

The Covid-19 pandemic pushed people into isolation, huddled in their homes with more than enough incentive to hit the couch rather than the gym. In the inactive atmosphere, athletes were forced to quarantine and train by themselves. The lack of contact with their teammates may seem daunting, but it has nurtured the greatest characteristics of Tinley Park High School’s upperclassmen.

Mariah Ayala, a senior soccer player, utilizes the sport daily, “Soccer motivates me. Going to practice really pushes me to keep doing good academically and mentally.”

Despite the hurdles of the girls’ shortened season, Ayala exudes an attitude like no other. Highly valuing optimism, mental health, as well as communication, Ayala’s emphasis on comfort helps provide a healthy environment for practice.

“I try to do a good job talking to the girls. Whether it be them having an issue or me having a problem, communicating is what I do best. I’m able to connect with others and help other people connect. If anyone’s having a problem, I’m able to solve it.”

Evidently, the physical portion of practice does not rank higher than her emphasis on the team’s state of comfort. With mindfulness, Ayala has contributed to the soccer squad’s success, “We really do take the time to communicate with each other and figure out ways that we can be stronger as a team.”

While talking with teammates is beneficial, Ayala maintains her mental health by journaling. She finds that the act, releasing her emotions onto inked pages, is a form of decompression. Further putting Ayala’s mind at ease, she comments on Tinley Park High School’s soccer schedule, “It’s an escape, something I can do that relieves me from my stress.”

Though honed in on mental strength, the soccer player participated heavily in the program’s nutrition and conditioning programs. Prior to the girls' season, one of their coaches, Kelsey Neylon, had established an early morning workout session labeled ‘Rise & Grind.’ Ayala encouraged her peers to be active via text, urging everyone to shape themselves into their peak physical condition for the upcoming season. Not to mention, the high-intensity interval workouts completed over google meet began at 6 in the morning. While Ayala had a zero-hour class, beginning at 7 every morning, she consistently proved herself throughout the preseason workouts. Coach Neylon commented on Mariah’s dedication.

“Mariah’s optimistic, yet competitive attitude, her dedication to our sunrise conditioning, and her work ethic on and off the field motivate her teammates to follow in her path. We are proud of Mariah for her growth these past four years as a Titan soccer player, and particularly in this last year for proving that no hurdle, big or small, will ever tear down a Titan leader and her unit! She is a cherished member of our senior squad, and we know Mariah’s leadership qualities will be valued in all that she pursues moving forward.”

Overall, the senior’s personable focus on the individual members is an indispensable quality. Mariah will be missed next year as she transitions to college for nursing school.