Grayslake Central junior midfielder Daria Rodriguez played soccer with the boys when she was a child.
Rodriguez recalls it as a formative experience.
“I am the soccer player I am today because of playing against boys,” she said. “I grew up with varsity players at Round Lake, Libertyville and Grayslake Central. I started at age 6 because there were no girls teams for my age. From then on, I just kept going. I played on the men's team for many years.
Rodriguez recalls the challenge the boys presented.
“I thought I had to work for my position because they wouldn’t give it to me,” she said. “They helped me learn the game. They were more aggressive.”
But Round Lake senior forward Yahir Hernandez said Rodriguez also pushed his players.
“Daria played with the fearlessness, passion and relentlessness that set her apart,” Hernandez said. “Her energy and aggression on the field challenged stereotypes.”
Rodriguez has been doing his part this season for the Rams (1-4-2) despite a tough schedule. She has four goals and five assists.
Grayslake Central coach Keith Anderson said Rodriguez, a third-year varsity player, can impact the game in a variety of ways.
“Daria can play anywhere,” Anderson said. “Her skill set allows her to be a goalscorer, creator and even a lockdown defender.
“Her enthusiasm for the game is contagious. She always wants to work, and she does. She trains and plays consistently.”
Rodriguez said he has worked hard to become a versatile player.
“I'll play wherever they need me,” she said. “I have played in every position in soccer. I have also played goalkeeping. I have learned how to use my body and read the game when defenders protect me and with touches in midfield. It was very helpful.”
Rodriguez continued to improve in the offseason.
“I’ve been working on my shot and touch a lot since last year,” she said. “I'm always trying to fix little things. I'm also able to take touches away from defenders and go one-on-one now.”
Rodriguez, who had three goals and two assists and was named All-Northern Lake County Conference last season, has several offers from college programs.
“I have big goals for myself,” she said. “My goal since I was young is to play in Division I and go pro from there. It's both exciting and nerve-wracking.”
Andersson believes Rodriguez has a bright future.
“The potential for dahlias is extraordinary,” Anderson said. “She's definitely a Division I player. Her vision and soccer IQ are off the charts.”
Rodriguez also sets an example for his teammates.
“Dahlia is a very strong leader because she plays and leads with dedication on and off the field,” Anderson said. “You can see her growth from a shy, quiet freshman to a strong and dominant player in her junior year.”
Rodriguez doesn't shy away from his dedication to the sport. She only played soccer in high school.
“Soccer makes me happy,” she said. “Soccer is my life.”
Bobby Narang is a freelance reporter.
