Friday Feature on Female Athlete Series
Rhianna Phillips, a 12th grader at Southern Lee High School, is a force to be reckoned with both on the soccer field and in the cheerleading gym. Her remarkable athleticism, combined with her dedication and positive attitude, has earned her recognition as an outstanding student-athlete and a true inspiration to her peers.
As a key player on her travel soccer team, SASL, Rhianna's commitment to the sport is evident in everything she does. Her hard work was recently recognized when she received the prestigious 110% award at Southern Lee High School, an honor that reflects not just her skill on the field but also her relentless drive and work ethic. "Soccer is a lot more challenging than people realize," Rhianna says. "It’s not just about running; it’s about strategy, quick thinking, and teamwork." This insightful perspective showcases her deep understanding of the sport and her passion for continuous improvement.
Rhianna’s love for soccer runs deep, and it's no surprise that she considers it her favorite sport. She embraces each season as an opportunity to grow and improve, no matter the challenges. "Just because we lost to a team last year doesn’t mean we’ll lose to them this year," she says. This mindset helps her approach every game with fresh energy and determination, knowing that past results don't define future outcomes.
Handling pressure is something Rhianna excels at, and her approach is simple: she plays with heart. "When things get tough, I remind myself to play for the love of the game," she shares. "As long as I know I’ve given everything, I can hold my head high." This attitude, combined with her passion for soccer, is what drives her to consistently perform at a high level.
To prepare for big games, Rhianna relies on both mental and emotional preparation. One key aspect of her pre-game routine is listening to music, which helps her calm her nerves and get in the right headspace. Her playlist includes songs that get her motivated and ready for action: "25" by Rod Wave, "Ends of Earth" by Ty Myers, "Nurse" and "No 9." by YoungBoy Never Broke Again, and "Get in with Me" by Bossman Dlow. These tracks fuel her focus and energy as she gears up for competition.
Rhianna also values mental health and knows how important it is to take care of herself outside of sports. She recharges by spending time with her family and friends, going out to eat with her mom, and finding ways to clear her mind, such as cleaning her room. "Taking time to do things I enjoy with people I love helps me feel grounded and ready to take on whatever comes next," she says.
Beyond her athletic abilities, Rhianna’s resilience and mental toughness are what truly set her apart. When asked which superhero she would want to be, Rhianna chose Batman. She admires his strength and focus, especially in the face of adversity. "I’d be Batman so I could save the world," she says, reflecting her desire to make a positive impact on those around her. Rhianna credits her sister as a key source of support, helping her stay positive and motivated. "Having my sister by my side really helps me get out of my head and stay focused," she says.
Rhianna's journey is a testament to hard work, resilience, and the support of loved ones. Whether she's on the soccer field or cheering from the sidelines, she continues to inspire her teammates, peers, and anyone who crosses her path. As she wraps up her high school career, there's no doubt that Rhianna Phillips will continue to excel, leaving her mark on both sports and life.
Cover photo and interview written by Sydney Bisson, Southern Lee social media intern