Local Soccer Player Returns to the Pitch after Season-Ending Injury

FRESNO, Calif.–Bianca Hernandez is a member of the Fresno State Women’s Soccer Club. Hernandez is a player with personality, intelligence, skill and determination.

She joined the team her freshman year. During the first game of the season, a corner kick play created a hurdle in Hernandez’s soccer career.

“It was a ball in the center of the field,” Hernandez says.  “So, it’s like me and a girl and we both jumped up. We went head-to-head and unfortunately, you know, I was the one who didn’t recover so well.”

Hernandez suffered a severe concussion that sidelined her for the rest of the season, nearly ending her career.

“I was talking to my doctor,” Hernandez says. “She pretty much told me it was better for me to stop playing soccer and I pretty much broke down.” 

Hernandez’s felt her life was incomplete without the sport that she loves.

“I’m the type of person that likes to go a hundred miles per hour and I don’t like to slow down,” Hernandez says.

Desperate to get back on the field, she went to a counselor for advice. The support from the counselor and her physical therapist helped her realize that her rehabilitation exercises will get her back on the field. 

Hernandez began her rehab and joined intramural soccer. Taking these steps helped her gain her confidence to return to the women’s soccer club.

Her teammate and team captain Bailey Smith, battled back from a torn ACL, so she understands how difficult it is to return from an injury.

“You kind of almost feel like you’re not a part of that team anymore,” Smith says.  “Because you are injured, you are on the sidelines, but having a big team comradery and having your team support you like that is huge I think in the recovery process.”

With the support of her team and a positive outlook, Hernandez learned that passion and determination can overcome the worst of injuries.