Road to the Super Bowl

Park High School (PHS) senior Alayna Adamez is being recognized on a national stage, as she has been named the NFC North winner of the prestigious NFL Latino Youth Honors award.

Earlier this month, Levi Drake Rodriguez, defensive tackle of the Minnesota Vikings, surprised Alayna at school with the news of her award.

“I was in pure shock,” said Alayna. “I felt like my story isn’t that special, I was so surprised and beyond grateful to be recognized like this.”

The NFL Latino Youth Honors award, which celebrates football skill, academic integrity and community involvement, has earned Alayna an all-expenses-paid trip to the Super Bowl in San Francisco, where the national winner will be announced amidst the championship festivities.

“My dad and I are beyond excited and so honored to be attending the Super Bowl in San Francisco,” says Alayna. 

This incredible honor didn’t come out of nowhere. It was built play by play, grade by grade, throughout a remarkable high school career. As the PHS Girls Flag Football starting quarterback, she led her team to the Final Four in the Minnesota State Tournament, amassing a staggering 1,432 passing yards and 32 touchdowns in just eight regular-season games, a performance that also earned her the District 6 Gold Quarterback of the Year title.

Alayna is a four-sport varsity athlete, also excelling in softball, hockey, and tennis. She has served as a team captain in hockey for four years, demonstrating the leadership her peers and coaches have come to rely on.

"I love how dedicated and committed Alayna is to all four of her sports. She was a strong leader as the quarterback of our first-ever Girls Flag Football team,” said PHS Activities Director Phil Kuemmel. “Alayna is a great leader in our building and is very deserving of this recognition."

Alayna is a proud member of a family with deep roots in St. Paul’s Latino community. Her achievements are a point of inspiration, showcasing the power of dedication and cultural pride.

“I owe everything to my family,” says Alayna. “My grandparents and parents have supported me more than I could have ever imagined; they are the reason I am here today.”

In the classroom, she maintains an impressive 3.967 Grade Point Average, proving that her commitment to excellence isn’t confined to the scoreboard. Her leadership extends into the hallways and the community, where she acts as a WEB leader, helping orient incoming students, and dedicates her time as a "Miracle League buddy helper," supporting children with disabilities as they enjoy the game of baseball.

“My biggest advice is get involved in things that interest you,” says Alayna. “It is easy to feel not seen, but the more you put yourself out there, the more you’ll find fulfillment and open new doors for yourself.”

“This award is a validation of Alayna’s character,” said PHS Flag Football Head Coach Scott Leonard. “She represents the very best of what we hope our students can become.”

After graduation, Alayna will continue her athletic career, playing Division I softball for Southern Illinois University Edwardsville while pursuing a degree in criminal justice with a focus on pre-law. 

Congratulations Alayna!