Esperanza鈥檚 Bailey Frazier: Defying expectations on and off the field
ANAHEIM, Calif. — Esperanza High School senior, Bailey Frazier is a multi-sport talent, with four years of dedicated basketball playing under her belt. However, it’s her recent foray into flag football that has truly captured attention. In just one year of playing flag football, Bailey’s team, the Esperanza Aztecs, managed to achieve an incredible feat鈥攖hey became the 2nd-ranked team in the nation. Bailey, along with her sister Ellie, and the rest of their teammates were undefeated, going 25-0, under the guidance of head coach Jimmy Valverde and staff. Bailey proudly recognizes her role in making history as part of the first-ever girls’ flag football season at Esperanza High School, only wishing the sport had been introduced sooner. As a senior, Bailey won鈥檛 have the opportunity to play another season in high school at least.
Perhaps one of the most surprising moments in Bailey’s athletic career was being invited to try out for the 2028 Olympics for rugby, along with her flag football quarterback and one of her best friends, Madilyn Lam. While her family is undoubtedly proud, Bailey’s excitement is palpable. She views this opportunity as a part of God’s plan for her, and she is eager to embrace it. Bailey and Madilyn spent a few days in San Diego training for the rugby trials. 鈥淩ugby is no joke!鈥� says Bailey. While the training is similar to flag football, Bailey got to experience tackling bags. That and the food were her favorite parts of the trip, but the whole experience was incredible. Describing the training as both brutal and fun, Bailey learned a lot from the supportive coaches. In addition to training, Bailey made a lot of new friends and had a Q&A session with some Olympic athletes.
Bailey’s life is anchored by her favorite verse, John 16:33: “I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! For I have overcome the world.” This verse serves as a reminder that even in the face of challenges, she can find inner peace and strength in Jesus. One of Bailey’s biggest challenges as an athlete is her tendency to be self-critical, especially after making mistakes. Instead of dwelling on these errors, she has learned to bounce back and recover. Bailey has taken to heart the advice her parents have given her throughout her athletic career: “Just play your game.鈥�
Bailey’s dedication to her team goes beyond words. She always puts her team’s interests ahead of her own. Her performances on the field or court are driven by how they benefit her team and not her personal statistics. Her selflessness and commitment to her teammates make her a standout athlete and leader. One of the things Bailey loves most about sports is the opportunity to represent her school, forge deep friendships, and continuously learn.
While sports are a significant part of Bailey’s life, she finds joy in activities beyond the field and court. She loves surfing, attending concerts with her father, and enjoying quality time at the beach. She also leads worship with her sister on Sundays and Wednesdays for their church鈥檚 youth group.
While Bailey is open to opportunities in sports, her primary focus is on cosmetology, a passion that may lead her down an exciting career path outside of athletics. However, her priorities are clear鈥攆amily holds the utmost importance, and she looks forward to focusing on her family, present and future. As she steps into the future, one can’t help but wonder where her drive and determination will take her next. We wish Bailey all the best in all her future endeavors.
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