Athlete of the Week: Lexi Sandoval

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Lexi Sandoval wants to make the Harlingen South softball program’s name known throughout the Rio Grande Valley.

The junior is a workhorse for the Lady Hawks, practicing year round to perfect her craft on the diamond.

“I go to my trainer almost everyday,” Sandoval said. “He really pushes me to where I need to be, batting especially, too. The grind never stops.”

Sandoval and the Lady Hawks are on the cusp of a district title in 32-5A. They’re unbeaten (15-0) with three games remaining in the regular season.

Sandoval credits the team's strong bond as the catalyst to their success in 2024.

“We have hearts for each other,” she said. “We play for each other, so it’s getting us places where we want to be.”

Lexi’s role within the Harlingen South softball program has grown since her freshman season. Once a quiet teammate, she now leads by example.

When her team faces adversity, Sandoval is the calming presence on the diamond.

“She’s the one that her teammates rely on when she’s in the circle and she’s resilient,” Joey Rios, Harlingen South head coach, said. “She’s going to say, ‘Hey, I want the ball coach. Let’s go get it.’”

Sandoval added, “When the team is down, in any situation, I have to be the leader and bring them up. I motivate them by saying that they got this. We got this. We’re a team. We’re going to succeed together.”

Lexi grew up watching Harlingen South softball, and leaving a lasting impact on the program has always been a goal of hers. 

While she has personal goals, Sandoval also has team goals. Goals that lead to a deep playoff run.

Harlingen South returns to the diamond to face Lopez in a crucial District 32-5A match up on Thursday, April 11.