Back in 2017, Amazyn East was one of the few girls who participated in a football camp hosted by former NFL player Hayes Pullard. This school year, East became an inaugural member of the Da Vinci Connect High School flag football team.
Although she is a junior, she will be graduating this spring semester.
“I really wanted to push myself and see how far I could go,” East said. “I just wanted to make a goal of being able to graduate early and be different because I was the first person to do it at my school.”
East was one of the team captains at Da Vinci Connect. She was able to assist her teammates while improving her leadership skills.
“I was able to be outside of the academic setting and get to take leadership, especially on calling plays and getting other girls, like helping them out with their skills,” East said. “I had been through it before, but this time, I wasn’t with boys, So I got to help more.”
Competing at Da Vinci was the first time East had female teammates. She began playing football when she was 7 years old. East was involved with the Carson Colts, where she learned the importance of having a strong work ethic.
“I have watched my brother play growing up, so I was constantly around football,” East said. “I really liked watching football and I thought it was kind of fun and more engaging, compared to when they had a cheer team.”
East also competes in track and field, running in the 100m, 200m, the 4x100m relay, and the 4x400m. Her main event is the 400m. According to East, the correct mentality is important when competing in the 400m.
“I would say to not rush your race and just run your race and know your body,” She said. “Maintain your focus and be calm and patient.”
Being a student athlete means to perform at a high level outside of the field. Her favorite class is math.
“I kind of try to stay organized and on a schedule and try to use my free-time wisely,” East said. “Da Vinci gives you life skills and they teach you how to be good on time management.”
Outside of academics and athletics, East is a member of the Black Student Union.
“We did a lot of school events,” East said. “We did a lot of bonding events with our school because our school is a newer school.”
