SPEEDWAY HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETICS

Today, we are celebrating Fernando Flores-Ayala, a senior student-athlete at Speedway High School. Fernando just completed his senior season as a member of the highly successful boys soccer program but his leadership also extends to the music department. In addition, Fernando’s talents extended to the Friday announcements where he shared his enthusiasm with the student body. How do sports play a role in Fernando’s life? “It helps me escape from my problems and reality,” said Fernando. “It also helps me strengthen my bonds with people and meet new people.” “Fernando is able to juggle so many tasks, with playing soccer, exceling in school and leading the band,” said soccer coach Dean Heaviland who noted Fernando’s success and grace in all of those adventures. “Fernando has been a great player for us the past four years,” added Heaviland. “He always has a positive attitude and a smile on his face and is willing to do anything to help the team, even if it comes at the sacrifice of his own desires.” Fernando also has participated in track and field where he was awarded the Mental Attitude Award. “I got it because there was no one who wanted to do the 400,” said Fernando. The coaches approached Fernando about filling that role. “I decided to do it. It was rough but my mentality is what kept me doing my events and to do the 400 … which was worth it.” And Fernando juggles a lot of responsibilities. “I am a Drum Major for the Speedway 500 Regiment!” exclaimed Fernando. “I love band and I also play my sports! I want to prove to others that even though I am in multiple sports, I can still do more! If I can be a Drum Major and do sports at the same time, anyone else can do it and they should also give it a shot!” Fernando is appreciative of the role that Jesus Ruvalcaba plays in his life. “He is a huge reason why I am here today,” said Fernando. “He helped me learn English and helped me with my homework when no one else could have helped me. He motivated me to learn and grow while learning English.” “Today, I am trying to be a "Jesus" to everyone else who needs help learning English like how he helped me learn English.” “It’s players like Fernando that enforce the culture of hard work and a positive attitude that the soccer team hopes to have in all its players,” added Heaviland. “He will be missed for both his performance and his leadership.” Fernando plans to attend Indiana University next fall where he plans on majoring in Spanish and Sports Management. Fernando is the son of Leo Flores and Alicia Ayala. He has a sister Marisol who is a sixth grader at Wheeler Elementary.