Rubio signs to play softball at Luna Community College

By Melissa McCaghren

Slatonite GM

Alexis Rubio, a 2020 graduate of Slaton High School, may have had her dream of going to State in softball abruptly stopped when COVID shuttered schools in March.

That said, her love of softball didn’t end there.

Rubio signed to play softball for Luna Community College in New Mexico recently.

She said it was an easy choice to play for the Rough Riders. “I decided to attend Luna Community College because it was closer to home compared to other schools that were interested, and also thought it would be a great opportunity for me to just get out of Slaton for a little and see new things and just meet new people,” she said.

“I’m looking forward to making new friends and just experiencing what it’s like to live away from home and away from my grandparents, who I have never been away from for so long.”

That said, moving has been a bit of a challenge, especially as she had to endure a two week quarantine moving to New Mexico.

“I most especially miss my Mom’s cooking!  Although, I’m excited to see what playing college softball is like,” she said. “As of right now it’s been hard being in quarantine since I am an out of state student. I’ve been staying in the Plaza Hotel in Las Vegas (N.M.) for about two weeks now. I’m excited to finally move into my dorm Sunday (Aug. 30) and get to interact and meet my other teammates.

Though her season ended short for her senior year,  Rubio said she had many fond memories of playing for the Slaton Tigers. “ One of my favorite memories was making Slaton history in softball,” she said, referring to the team’s first ever Regional Quarterfinal appearance in 2019. “It was just a blessing to be a part of that moment and to just be a part of that team.

“Another great memory would have to be when I got announced to my position before a home game and when I was running out I tripped over the lip and – and yes Coach (Brandon) Langston I did indeed trip over the lip and not just fall. I just remember my visor being sideways and my glove was completely off. Just funny.”

Rubio will be majoring in allied health. She plans to attend Luna for two years then enroll in a radiology program to become a radiation therapist.

Rubio also took the time to say thank you to the people who have helped shape her into the student, athlete and most importantly person she is today.

“Finally I would like to say thank you to all the coaches I have had throughout my years of playing softball,” she said.

“But most importantly A huge thank you to Coach Langston and Amanda Langston for always believing in me and pushing me to do my best. They have always been there for me when I needed something and always helped in any possible way.

“Also Mom and Popo thank y’all for being my number one fans and always supporting me in everything I do. I don’t know who I’d be or where I’d be without y’all! Much love.”