Alia Marquez is a captain on the softball team at LBCC with a total of 27 wins this season. Her leadership has been paramount to the comradery that these women have built throughout the season.
“She is always on top of everything and if something isn’t right, she’ll be the first one to point it out and guide the team,” Jenifer Aguilar, the LBCC infielder said.
Attitude is the backbone to the success of Marquez. Her ability to be self-aware and lift herself out of a negative mindset allows Marquez to keep moving forward.
Not only does Marquez lead the Vikings into battle on the diamond at LBCC, she also coaches softball for the nationwide organization, Athletics Mercado.
“Her being a coach for another team translates very well here because she holds us accountable,” Aguilar said.
According to Athletics Mercado’s website they have “a proven model to get their players, coaches, and teams to excel and compete at the highest level.”
“I just like being a good example to these girls, and I enjoy giving back to them,” Marquez said about her experience coaching.
Her coaching career began with her sister and now she is helping with three teams.
Currently, there is no room for anything but softball for Marquez. She has no hobbies, just a love for the game that requires constant attention. “It’s like I eat, breathe, and sleep softball,” Marquez said. If she’s not with her collegiate team she is at another diamond with the teams she coaches.
“Alia Marquez is very mature and disciplined and works extremely hard.” Coach Megan Martinez said. “She’s the first one to practice and is always the last one to leave. Her leadership and communicative skills are superior.”
Having the ability to balance school, playing softball, and coaching softball is a point of pride for Marquez. As a youth, she didn’t foresee her ability to handle such a busy schedule. Now that she is living a life full of responsibilities and time restrictions, she sees it as a blessing.
“I know that if I didn’t have this much going on, I’d probably be out doing something that I shouldn’t be doing,” Marquez said.
Her motivation to stay busy is not the only thing that keeps Alia Marquez in constant motion. She draws inspiration from witnessing her mother’s resilience, and strong-mindedness, growing up to achieve success.
Alia Marquez also credits her mother with getting her start in softball.
“My mom played when she was younger, and I guess it’s just in my blood,” Marquez said, “She just signed me up for softball and I’ve been doing it since.”
Another role model for Marquez is Coach Fa Leilua on the coaching staff at LBCC.
“Now that I’m here at Long Beach, I’d say Coach Fa,” Marquez said when asked about role models in her life. “I love her energy and the way she’s giving back to us.”
“I’m pretty good at picking myself up and understanding that I’m here for a reason.” Marquez said, “I’ve got a lot of good things going for me and I can’t give that up now.”
What does the future hold for Alia Marquez?
“Hopefully playing softball at the next level, graduating with a good degree, and getting a good job. I would love to continue coaching and giving back to the girls.” Marquez said.