Athlete of the Week - Liberty Flag Football's Trishelle Tucay

Athlete of the Week – Liberty Flag Football’s Trishelle Tucay

For Liberty High School’s Trishelle Tucay, flag football is more than a sport. It is a place where competition, hard work, and a love for the game come together. The two-way standout has quickly established herself as one of the country’s top young flag football players, earning national recognition while making an impact on both sides of the ball. MaxPreps has ranked Tucay among the nation’s top players, and she has also earned a spot on the MaxPreps All-America Team, but for Tucay, the recognition means even more because of the people who have helped her reach this point.

“It means a lot to be recognized, especially for a sport I love so much,” Tucay said. “I’m grateful for my teammates, coaches, and family because they’ve all helped me get here.”

Tucay’s path to flag football began by watching her brothers play tackle football. She knew she wanted her own opportunity to get on the field.

“Once I did, I loved the competition, the friendships, and the feeling of making a play that helps my team,” she said. “Flag football brings me so much happiness.”

That love for the game has translated into production as both a receiver and defensive playmaker. At receiver, Tucay enjoys creating separation, making catches, and turning opportunities into big plays. On defense, she embraces the challenge of reading the offense and making a stop when her team needs it most.

“I love playing both sides and holding the team on my back,” she said.

Her abilities have also taken her beyond the high school level. Tucay represented the United States with USA Football’s Junior National Team and helped the team win a gold medal.

“Representing the U.S. and winning gold was an incredible experience,” Tucay said. “You’re playing alongside talented athletes who all want the same thing, and it pushes you to raise your level.”

The experience gave Tucay an opportunity to compete alongside some of the best young players in the country while representing the United States on an international stage. Winning gold ranks among her favorite accomplishments, but it is not the only experience that stands out. Tucay was also featured in an NFL commercial, an opportunity that allowed her to represent girls’ flag football on a national stage.

“Seeing myself represent flag football on that stage was exciting, and it made me proud to show other girls what’s possible in this sport,” she said.

Away from the field, Tucay maintains a demanding schedule. Her days can start with a 5 a.m. gym session before school, homework, and more practice or training. She also makes time for her family and friends. Her commitment to improvement is driven by the belief that there is always another part of her game to develop.

“I know there’s always another part of my game I can improve,” Tucay said. “Playing against great athletes motivates me, and I want to keep growing so I can give my best to every team I’m on.”

Her biggest inspiration comes from her family.

Tucay points to her mom, Michelle, whose strength, discipline, and dedication have influenced her approach to life and athletics. Her father has also played an important role in helping her develop as a player and supporting her love for football. Faith is another important part of Tucay’s life. When she is not playing or practicing, she enjoys reading the Bible and making time for daily Bible study. Her athletic interests also extend beyond flag football. Tucay plays volleyball, runs track, and even considers herself a strong pickleball player. When it comes to football, though, she has a clear appreciation for elite receivers. Justin Jefferson and Amon-Ra St. Brown are among her favorite athletes, and if she could have dinner with one athlete, she would choose Jefferson.

“I’d want to ask how he keeps improving as a receiver and how he stays confident when the pressure is on,” Tucay said.

Before games, Tucay turns to Christian singer and songwriter Josh Baldwin, specifically his song “Made for More.” She also has a simple game-day routine, honey.

“I always make sure to have honey before every game to help get me started,” she said.

As girls’ flag football continues to grow, Tucay understands that she is playing during an important moment for the sport.

More opportunities are becoming available for girls, and she hopes her generation can help create even more opportunities for those who follow.

“It means a lot to be playing at a time when more girls are getting opportunities in this sport,” Tucay said. “I hope younger girls see us play and know there’s a place for them in football, too.”

That bigger picture is part of what drives her goals. In 2027, Tucay hopes to earn a spot on the U.S. Women’s National Team while continuing to raise her standard of play at Liberty. She wants to improve on both sides of the ball and become the kind of teammate Liberty can rely on. As a team, her goal is to continue growing together and compete for a championship. Long-term, Tucay wants to play flag football at the highest level possible, including competing in college. Her ambitions extend beyond her own career.

“I want to see how far I can take this sport while helping open doors for the girls who come after me,” she said.

For Tucay, that journey is already underway. From the Liberty sideline to the USA Football stage, she is building a career defined not only by statistics and accolades, but by her willingness to compete on every play, continue improving, and help push girls’ flag football forward.

More FSM Athlete of the Week

Catch up on past honorees: Shadow Ridge flag football’s Keira Rodriguez, Centennial football’s Jayden “Jet” Thomas, and Palo Verde football’s Beau Gardineer, or see the full list of FSM Athlete of the Week winners. Know an athlete who deserves it? Nominate them here.

Franchise Sports Media. Las Vegas sports news about Las Vegas Sports teams.

— Keira Reece Orton (@sportswithkeira) for Franchise Sports Media

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