Absegami High School’s Erika Hernandez races toward the goal during a game against Middle Township
Glory Days publisher Dave O’Sullivan caught up with Absegami High School girls lacrosse senior Erika Hernandez, a 17-year-old from Galloway Township, for a question-and-answer session following the Braves’ season-opener against Middle Township on Thursday.
Question: What’s the biggest difference between being a freshman, when you started, and now as a senior?
Answer: Well, when I was a freshman I couldn’t even catch a ball or cradle. I was the only one who didn’t know how to, but with the help of the older girls I was really able to grasp the concept. And with the help of the coaches I started on varsity the next year.
Sully: What are your plans after you graduate?
Hernandez: I’m hoping to play for a Division III team next year.
Sully: What about high school in general? What’s the biggest difference between being a freshman and now that you’re a senior?
Hernandez: It’s different. You learn so much from being a freshman, throughout the years. Just the experience and the memories you make, it’s really fun.
Sully: What’s the coolest thing about going to Absegami High School?
Hernandez: There’s a lot. The sports teams, making new friends, and the teachers are really great. And we have such great spirit! We did a lip-dub and it was so much fun. It was a great way to bring the whole school together.
Sully: What’s the most annoying thing about high school boys?
Hernandez: (giggles) I don’t know. That’s funny. I usually hang out with the boys, so I’m like one of them.
Sully: If you were to make a request for something to be added to the high school cafeteria menu, what would you pick?
Hernandez: Hmmm. Less greasy pizza. Because (greasy pizza) is gross.
Sully: What would your dream car be?
Hernandez: A silver Jeep Liberty. I like the big cars. I’m a little girl, but I like the big cars.
Sully: Do you have trouble keeping up with the Kardashians?
Hernandez: Well, I guess so, because I don’t really watch their show.
Sully: What’s the most popular music for you and your teammates in terms of getting psyched up for a game?
Hernandez: Lately everyone has been into house music and the techno stuff to get everyone pumped.
Sully: If you had a chance to hang out with a singer or a band, who would you pick?
Hernandez: Nick Jonas!
Sully: If everything goes the way you plan it, where will you be in 10 years?
Hernandez: I want to be a physical therapist, for maybe a sports team. So hopefully I will get there.
