Leilani Armenta, the Jackson State kicker who made HBCU soccer historical past in 2023, has entered the NCAA switch portal, in keeping with WJTV. Armenta grew to become the primary lady to attain a degree in a Division I HBCU soccer recreation when she kicked three additional factors in Jackson State’s 40-14 win over Arkansas-Pine Bluff on October 28.
The California native initially joined the Jackson State soccer crew as a backup kicker, stepping in when accidents left the Tigers quick on the place. She additionally performed for the ladies’s soccer crew, the place she began as a freshman earlier than an harm restricted her availability.
Armenta’s contributions to Jackson State had been important not simply due to her efficiency, however due to what it represented. Her look and scoring effort marked a milestone in HBCU sports activities historical past, making her the primary lady to ever rating in an FCS HBCU soccer recreation. She scored three additional factors through the 2023 season and one through the 2024 season.
Now within the switch portal, Armenta will discover different alternatives for the following step in her school profession. Whether or not she sticks with soccer, soccer, or each, her legacy at Jackson State is already cemented. She helped break down obstacles at a high-profile HBCU program and confirmed that ladies can compete on the soccer discipline on the Division I degree.
For extra particulars and future updates, go to HBCUGameday.com.