EXACT RANKINGS

Izabel Hernandez Shines on the EXACT 11 Watchlist

get instant (free) access

Please Enter Your information To Access This Content - IT'S FREE
Sport
  • Football
  • Basketball
  • Baseball
  • Volleyball
  • Soccer
  • Tennis
  • Softball
Athlete Grad Year
  • 2025
  • 2026
  • 2027
  • 2028
  • 2029
  • 2030
  • 2031
State
  • AL
  • AK
  • AZ
  • AR
  • CA
  • CO
  • CT
  • DE
  • DC
  • FL
  • GA
  • GU
  • HI
  • ID
  • IL
  • IN
  • IA
  • KS
  • KY
  • LA
  • ME
  • MD
  • MA
  • MI
  • MN
  • MS
  • MO
  • MT
  • NE
  • NV
  • NH
  • NJ
  • NM
  • NY
  • NC
  • ND
  • OH
  • OK
  • OR
  • PA
  • PR
  • RI
  • SC
  • SD
  • TN
  • TX
  • UT
  • VT
  • VI
  • VA
  • WA
  • WV
  • WI
  • WY
  • CAN
  • Other
Select Your Role

In the world of youth sports, few achievements resonate as powerfully as being acknowledged on the EXACT 11 Watchlist. For Izabel Hernandez, a talented rising star from Torrance, California, occupying one of these coveted spots at the recent camp held by EXACT Rankings not only marks a significant milestone in her athletic journey but also highlights her exceptional character, resilience, and the spirit of camaraderie that sports can foster.

The Journey Begins: A Passion Ignited

Izabel’s journey in soccer began at a young age, nurtured by a passion for the game that grew each year. Following in the footsteps of her older siblings, she discovered the joy of kicking a soccer ball at the age of five. “I loved playing outside and just having fun with my friends,” Izabel reminisces, a smile stretching across her face. “It didn’t feel like practice; it felt like play.”

Playing in the vibrant South West G09 Girls league, Izabel’s talent was clearly evident from her early days. Yet, her pathway has not been without its obstacles. Juggling academics, family obligations, and club commitments can be daunting for many young athletes, and Izabel is no exception. With every goal scored and every match won came the underlying duty to maintain her grades and personal relationships—balancing these demands has instilled crucial life skills and resilience that would later enhance her performance on the field.

Finding Her Footing: Overcoming Challenges

Transitioning from a recreational player to a competitive athlete involved significant trials. The moment Izabel stepped into a more competitive environment, the stakes were raised. “I remember feeling so nervous at my first club tryout,” she expresses, recalling her introduction to an elite level of play. “But every time I faced a challenge, it pushed me to work harder, train smarter, and believe in myself.”

Her dedication was tested when she faced the discomfort of competing against older and more experienced players. Often, the fear of failure knocked on her door, creeping in during late-night training sessions and early morning drills. Yet, with the support of her coaches and teammates, Izabel transformed her anxiety into motivation, developing both her skills and mental fortitude.

Each practice became a stepping stone toward bigger aspirations, as she meticulously worked on refining her technique, strength, and field vision. As part of the Surf South West G09 squad, she quickly became a cornerstone of her team, known for her notable agility and precise footwork that could turn the tide of a game in an instant.

A Moment of Triumph: Earning a Spot on the EXACT 11 Watchlist

Izabel’s hard work culminated at the prestigious EXACT Rankings camp, where she showcased her refined skills in front of top coaches and scouts. Participating in this competitive environment, she was determined to leave everything on the field. It was her unwavering belief in herself, paired with an unstoppable work ethic, that solidified her presence among the top athletes in attendance.

In games and drills, there were numerous moments that captivated everyone present. One instance stands out: Izabel received a pass deep in the opponent’s territory during a scrimmage. With defenders closing in, she exhibited a combination of speed, agility, and tactical awareness, deftly maneuvering around her opponents before launching a striking shot that sent the ball soaring into the far corner of the net. The crowd erupted, and in that fleeting moment, she captured the essence of what it means to be an exceptional athlete. It wasn’t merely about scoring a goal; it was about demonstrating resilience, creativity, and passion.

When the announcement was made regarding the Watchlist, a wave of emotion washed over her. “Hearing my name called felt surreal,” Izabel recalls, her eyes gleaming. “It was a moment of validation for all the hard work I’ve put in, not just this year but throughout my entire journey.”

The Heart of a Champion: Community and Sportsmanship

While achievements in sports may spotlight individual talents, Izabel possesses an inherent understanding of the collective spirit that underpins the game of soccer. The friendships forged during training sessions, the late-night team strategizing, and the heartfelt encouragement during games resonate deeply within her athletic journey. “It’s not just about the individual accolades,” she emphasizes, “but the bonds we share as teammates. We lift each other up; we celebrate victories and learn from losses together.”

Her commitment extends beyond the field. Embracing diversity in the sport, Izabel is a staunch advocate for inclusivity among youth athletes. Recognizing that sports can bridge cultural divides, she embodies a spirit of acceptance that encourages participation regardless of background. This commitment is evident in her interactions with teammates—valuing each person’s unique journey and the perspectives they contribute.

Lessons Learned: Growth Through Sports

The influence of sports stretches far beyond physical prowess; it teaches invaluable life lessons. Izabel frequently shares that her experience in soccer has equipped her with critical skills such as teamwork, perseverance, and emotional regulation. These skills flock with her into the classroom, shaping her approach to academic challenges.

When confronted with rigorous coursework or time management hurdles, Izabel takes a tactical approach reminiscent of her training. “In soccer, you have to think two steps ahead,” she explains. “When I’m studying or juggling my schedule, I apply the same mindset—prioritizing and strategizing to achieve my goals.”

Looking Ahead: The Future is Bright

With an unwavering spirit and a place on the EXACT 11 Watchlist, Izabel’s journey is just beginning. As she sets her sights on playing at a collegiate level, the commitment to continuous improvement fuels her ambitions. She trains with an eye on coaching and mentorship, eager to inspire the next generation of athletes.

“The experiences I’ve had have made me a stronger person,” she reflects. “I want to be someone others can look up to, reminding them that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.”

Conclusion: Embracing the Spirit of Youth Sports

Izabel Hernandez’s story serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit of youth athletes. Her perseverance, passion, and teamwork embody the qualities that elevate individuals beyond their natural abilities. By emphasizing resilience in the face of challenges, celebrating cultural diversity, and fostering community, we can see that sports are more than just games—they are transformational experiences that shape lives.

As we celebrate Izabel’s achievements and the spirit exemplified through her journey, it’s crucial to remember that behind every sport is a potent force for good, capable of inspiring change, instilling confidence, and building bridges across communities. Sports are a vehicle for growth—a platform where dreams can flourish, and extraordinary athletes like Izabel Hernandez continue to shine brightly.

Jont Henrry

Jont Henrry

The sportswear company that was once lauded as the next big thing in apparel suffered a number of high-profile departures, saw its stock fall more than 40%, and reported its first quarterly loss.

RECOMMENDED FOR YOU

HIGHLIGHTS YOU MAY LIKE

Play Video

YOU MAY AlSO LIKE


Get Featured -
REQUEST
Coverage Now!

Receive National Coverage And Get The Recognition You Deserve On EXACT Rankings. 

ELEVATE YOUR GAME

Build up your player profile, check your rankings, and compete with the largest national network of top-talent. Join our community and celebrate the extraordinary.

Free Profile

Set up your free player profile and join our community - it’s easy!

All Access Pass

$ 19.99

per / month

Unlock unlimited access to all rankings, content, and profile features

Get All Access To: