Football was once widely considered a game for boys, but Gracie Rhodes thought otherwise. 

The freshman pre-occupational therapy major from Henderson, Nevada, this past season competed at the varsity level as the starting kicker for Lake Mead Academy. 

Following a season in which head football coach Nate Oishi lost his starting kicker, he reached out to his twin varsity players, Gavin and Christian Rhodes, in hopes of recruiting their sister. 

Gracie, who grew up playing soccer, was elated with the opportunity to play alongside her brothers, she said.

“It was amazing to play at Allegiant Stadium (home of Las Vegas Raiders) and be immersed in such a unique, indoor and windless environment with my brothers,” said Gracie.

Not only did Gracie play football for her high school team, she excelled in it. That year winning the state championship for LMA, she finished that game with a perfect five-for-five PAT statline.

Additionally, Gracie led Nevada in extra points, gaining the accreditation of the 2A All-Southern League first-team kicker.

As the lone kicker, however, Gracie said post game was a little lonely. After leaving the field following a win, she had to celebrate without her teammates, alone in the women’s coaching locker room.