Central High School’s Jhaselyn Gonzalez
Central High School’s Jhaselyn Gonzalez brings energy, versatility and leadership to every sport she plays. A multi-sport athlete, Gonzalez competes in softball, track and cheer, balancing different responsibilities while finding ways to improve both as an athlete and teammate.
“I play softball, track, and cheer! In softball I played 2nd and was the second hitter in the lineup. Track I ran the 4 by 1 relay, open 100, and the 4 by 4 relay. I got 6th in the state for the 4 by 4 relay. In cheer i’m the main base!”
Her proudest athletic memory came during track season, when her 4-by-4 relay team earned a trip to the state meet. The team initially believed its season had ended before learning it had qualified, then went on to place sixth in the state.
“A memory that I’m most proud of is when my 4 by 4 relay team made it to state in track. We were so excited and happy but we also went through the five stages of grief it felt like because we originally thought we didn’t make it, come to find out we indeed did and later placed 6th in the state!”
Gonzalez said athletics have taught her valuable lessons about perseverance, sacrifice and leading younger athletes. She has learned that difficult moments are unavoidable, but effort and authenticity matter most.
“I would say all the sports I’ve done have taught me to be a better leader to those younger than me. It also taught me the responsibility and sacrifice one has to make for these sports. The biggest lesson I’ve learned from my sports is that your gonna get hit with hard stuff (not just softballs) your gonna get told news that you don’t like whether that’s an injury or you get moved to a different position. No matter the news good or bad you have to keep pushing yourself to be your best authentic version of you!”
She credits track coach Courtney Bair with changing her perspective on athletics and self-confidence. Gonzalez also points to teammate Ayrland Giles as an example of a hardworking, dependable leader.
“Courtney Bair who is also known as my track coach. That woman has genuinely changed the whole aspect of how view myself as an athlete and how I carry myself.”
Gonzalez’s approach is shaped by a simple piece of advice: “Work harder. No matter how hard you work there’s always someone working harder. This has really made me push myself as an athlete and strive to be better!”
