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Baileigh Rumage talks about her soccer career.

Tell me a bit about yourself.

I am a junior at Helena High School. I am in my fourth year of varsity soccer and play club soccer for Alabama FC ECNLR. I serve on the Youth Advisory Council for Family Connections, which serves youth in crisis, and I attend The Station Church.

What inspired you to start playing soccer?

When I was little I always had a ton of energy to burn so I told my parents I wanted to sign up for soccer and see how it went. Since I played in that first season, I fell in love with the sport. My parents continue to inspire me to play soccer as they have always encouraged me to do what I love and to work hard to be the best version of myself in all aspects of life.

Has there ever been a coach or mentor that made a huge impact on you? What did they teach you?

I had a previous club coach, John Imwalle, who always pushed me to get better and has helped me to believe in myself both on and off the field. He continues to be a great mentor for me both in soccer and in life. Additionally, my trainer, Oyeleke Payne, has made the biggest impact on my soccer career. He has encouraged me to go beyond what I thought was possible. His training is not easy, but he has helped me grow into the player I am today. Coach Naron, my high school coach, gave me an opportunity in eighth grade to be a starter for varsity and believed in me more than I believed in myself. He has been influential in helping me to become a better leader.

What strengths do you believe make you a great athlete?

Well, my dad would probably love for me to say it is my genetics, but if I am being honest, I think my drive for success and my desire to work hard gives me success as an athlete. I always push myself to become a better player today than I was yesterday and the only way to accomplish that is to work hard for myself and for those around me.

What is your favorite soccer memory?

At a pre-season tournament at the beginning of this season. We were playing Montgomery Academy and the game was tied 1-1 with only a few minutes left in the game. I scored to go up 2-1 and all my teammates came and celebrated with me. The vision of them sharing that moment with me was really special.

When you’re not in school or playing sports, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?

In my free time I spend time with my family and friends and playing with my dog, Ember. I enjoy being active and outdoors. I love water sports and snow skiing, hunting with my dad and friends and traveling. I love a good concert, my friends would say I enjoy talking and recently touring colleges around the country has become a fun pastime.