Her abilities on the soccer field are not in question. Itzel Salazar recently finished her soccer career at Todd County Central High School having played in 61 matches over a four-year period. During that time period, she scored 12 goals and assisted on five others. Those numbers would have likely been higher had not two of her four seasons been impacted by COVID-19.
As solid as she was when the Lady Rebels were on the attack, her defensive play for the Lady Rebels placed her among the best in the region.
While Itzel Salazar was a true standout on the field, her skills and leadership extend far beyond what she exhibited while in a Lady Rebels’ uniform.
Itzel has excelled in the classroom during her four years at Todd County Central. She had achieved honor roll status for every grade period so far. Plus, she has been named to the Principal’s List at Todd Central.
Itzel is involved in several extra-curricular activities. Among those is Raíces y Alas. Itzel says Raíces y Alas is a club for Latino students in which they get to learn more about their culture and they educated about going to college and how students can reach that goal. Itzel adds that in Raíces y Alas the older students lead the younger kids and help them with subjects like reading, writing, and math. They are also taught things about health and how to stay healthy. Students in the organization are taken to visit colleges and talk to recruiters.
She is also involved in FCCLA, Beta, and the Spanish Club at Todd County Central, where Itzel has exhibited leadership skills and been involved in helping out in the Todd County community.
One of the things you notice quickly about the young lady is her humility. On the soccer field, you would find her not doing things to draw great attention to herself, rather just going about doing the job that was hers to do on the field.
When asked about her accomplishments and honors, Itzel shied away from talking extensively about herself. She stated, “I just like to volunteer and help with what I can.”
Her coach for the 2021 soccer season, Torri Bankston said this about Itzel, “Itzel is the epitome of a TRUE teammate and player. She leads by example on and off the field. Not only does she give her all in every practice and game, but she also excels in the classroom. She has a heart of gold- her school/ community involvement is a reflection of that. She works hard at everything she does and she never settles for less than excellent. Although I’m sad to see that type of young woman leave the program, as a coach, I am excited to see everything she accomplishes after graduation. She will do great things!”
Itzel Salazar as a freshman
Itzel as a junior
