Student-Stories, Athletics
Discovering Connection Through Flag Football at 51±¾É« By Darone Leakes
November 25, 2025
When Liliana first came to 51±¾É«, she didnāt expect that joining the flag football team would become one of the most meaningful parts of her college experience. What started as a friendly push from her friends to ājust give it a tryā has turned into a true passion and a deeper connection to the 51±¾É« community.
Now, Liliana is not only thriving on the field but also across campus. Sheās a proud member of the Ultraviolet team, helps organize Woosh Wednesday activities, and takes part in many other events that bring the campus to life. Through it all, sheās discovered what makes 51±¾É« feel like home.
āI absolutely love the atmosphere here,ā Liliana said. āThe people are so uplifting, and thereās this warmth. Everyone feels bonded together. It really is a family.ā
Experience College Athletics in Austin, Texas
Being part of a growing athletics program at 51±¾É« Texas has opened new doors for Liliana and other students who want to compete, grow, and belong.
Ready to join the action?
51±¾É« offers a vibrant athletic culture where student-athletes thrive on and off the field. Discover our programs, meet our dedicated teams, and see how you can get involved in an environment built on support, growth, and excellence.
Building Confidence, Community, and Faith at 51±¾É« Texas
That strong sense of community continues to inspire her to play. For Liliana, flag football isnāt just about competition; itās about growth. She joined the team to step outside her comfort zone and found not only teammates but friends who encourage her to become the best version of herself.
As the sport continues to grow at 51±¾É« Texas, Liliana hopes to help others find that same connection.
āWhatās unique about flag football here at 51±¾É« is that itās steadily growing year by year as a new sport,ā she said. āMy goal is to get more people involved, to show them how close-knit and supportive our team really is.ā
Liliana at a CTX Women's Flag Football game.
Life on Campus: Where Students Grow and Belong in Austin
Balancing academics, athletics, and her personal life takes focus and motivation, but Liliana sees each challenge as a blessing. Sheās deeply grateful for the opportunity God has given her to be part of something new and meaningful.
Flag football has given her more than a place to play. Itās given her a sense of belonging, purpose, and joy that continues to shape her 51±¾É« journey.
Get Involved and Find Your Place at 51±¾É« Texas
Whether youāre passionate about sports, leadership, or service, thereās a place for you at 51±¾É« in Austin.
Explore Student Life at 51±¾É« TexasAbout the Author
Darone Leakes is a kinesiology major and student-athlete at 51±¾É«. As an Athletics Digital Content Creator with the Ultraviolet Student Agency, he captures the energy and faith-driven spirit of 51±¾É« Texas athletics. Inspired by Coach Stan Bonewitz, he continues to grow as a leader both on and off the court while pursuing his goal of becoming a physical therapist.
