Sunnyside High School Class of 2024 graduate Audrey Jimenez, now a freshman wrestler at Lehigh University, will be awarded a Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) deal with Arizona Athletic Grounds for $10,000 on Tuesday.
AAG is a youth sport and entertainment facility in Mesa that serves “millions of visitors per year,” according to its Web site.
Jimenez, Benedictine volleyball player Kenley Horton and Washington soccer player Tatum Thompson comprise AAG’s inaugural class of “Girls First Ambassadors.”
The AAG “Girls First” Ambassador program honors female collegiate student-athletes who have exceptional athletic abilities and have left impactful marks on their local communities.
AAG states in a press release that it is “dedicated to creating a platform that not only showcases the talents of female athletes, but also inspires and connects with future generations.”
“The $10,000 Jimenez will receive from AAG will support her journey to creating spaces that uplift other female athletes,” AAG’s press release states. “Additionally, by leading in their respective fields the three athletes will partner with AAG to amplify the ‘Girls First’ movement, celebrating female athletics and creating an environment for young girls to embrace athletics as they drive meaningful change in the landscape of sports. “
“Girls First embodies what AAG stands for. Our awards shine a light on these remarkable student-athletes. They have demonstrated their ability to be leaders and we are excited to work together to enhance the ‘Girls First’ initiative here at AAG,” said Meg Stevens, AAG president, states in the release.
Jimenez is a trailblazer in wrestling, becoming the first female to win a boys’ state championship in Arizona last season.
She maintained a 4.16 GPA while earning a spot on the U.S. Senior National Team for two consecutive years and serving as an Olympic alternate. A four-time state champion, multiple national champion, and world medalist, Jimenez continues to give back to her community by volunteering at camps and speaking to students about her journey.
Horton, from Gilbert, attends Benedictine at Mesa, a Division III school. Despite living with congenital heart disease and chronic kidney disease, she has inspired others by pursuing becoming a college volleyball player.
Thomas, of Peoria, had six goals, including four game winners, for Washington last season. She has served as a guest speaker for young athletes. She has partnered with Gatorade to showcase how women can represent themselves in sports.
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