One throw of a ball can create more opportunities than imaginable. For Ximena Herrera, a flag football player and senior at Creekview High School, one throw helped open the door to an opportunity she never expected. On Sept. 8, Herrera was surprised by the Dallas Cowboys in her classroom with the news that she had been nominated as this year’s female representative for the Latino Youth Honors Award (LYHA).

Each year, all 32 NFL teams select one male and one female high school senior football player to represent their team for the LYHA. Nominees are considered for eight national finalist spots, with the two national winners receiving $25,000 college tuition grants and the other six finalists receiving $5,000. Herrera’s recognition marks the second consecutive year a CFBISD student has been selected for the award.

Photo by Maraya Shields, Creekview High School

“I was really happy to make my parents proud and all of my supporters,” Herrera said. “It fills my heart knowing that they’re happy to see all of my accomplishments in academics and sports, and the sacrifices they made for me.”

Herrera demonstrates extraordinary responsibility both inside and beyond the classroom. Despite having a full schedule, Herrera continues to push forward, balancing the responsibilities of being a full-time student with working, playing on the flag football and volleyball teams, and participating in community service. 

“Ximena shows up every day, works hard and never complains about it,” said Bethany Johnstone, Creekview’s head volleyball coach. “She leads by example and also is a teammate that others feel they can trust because she treats them well. We are so excited for Ximena as she is very deserving of this award and opportunity.”

Photo by Maraya Shields, Creekview High School

As she looks toward the future, Herrera hopes to pursue a criminal justice degree at Texas Tech University after graduation while continuing to play flag football at the collegiate level.

“I’m really interested in continuing with flag football in college,” Herrera said. “I would also like to pursue an education in Criminal Justice or anything law-related.”

As part of the recognition, Herrera will be recognized by the Dallas Cowboys during the pregame events of their next home game against the Washington Commanders on Sept. 20, making the experience especially memorable for her and her family.

At CFBISD, we are proud to support students as they pursue their goals and prepare for their futures. Herrera’s dedication both on and off the field continues to open new opportunities, and we are proud to celebrate this achievement with her.

More about the Latino Youth Honors Award