Jackson State Kicker Becomes School's First Female Football Player

Jackson State football didn't just secure its first home victory of the season; it etched a historic moment into its legacy. Leilani Armenta took the field to kick off for Jackson State, marking her as the first woman to don the school's football gear and likely a pioneer in Division I HBCU football.

Leilani Armenta, a member of the Jackson State soccer team, found herself thrust into this unique opportunity due to a string of injuries in the kicking position. Her experience included high school football at Saint Bonaventure HS, alongside her passion for soccer. In the contest, Armenta confidently handled two kickoffs for Jackson State

After the game, Armenta expressed the significance of the moment, saying, "It means a lot to me. It opens up opportunities for girls at other schools to show what they can do. It shows what you can achieve with hard work and a willingness to learn and improve."

The triumph didn't end with this groundbreaking moment. Jackson State went on to secure a hard-fought victory with a final score of 22-16. Despite trailing 9-8 at halftime and facing a resilient B-CU squad with only five wins since 2020, Jackson State football showcased their determination. With this win, they improved their season record to 3-2.

Jackson State now enjoys a well-deserved break before their next challenge. They will return to action in the Gulf Coast Challenge in Mobile, Alabama, facing off against SWAC East rival Alabama A&M. This victory, coupled with Leilani Armenta's historic contribution, serves as a testament to the team's resilience and their commitment to making history on the football field.