Janet Rodriguez returns to soccer field after battle with cancer

Del Valle soccer player Janet Rodriguez was unable to compete this year for her school team, but she wasn’t going to miss an opportunity to play club soccer again.

Rodriguez had her right leg amputated during her battle with cancer prior to last season, but she didn’t let that hold her back Tuesday night at the Westside Soccer Complex.

Rodriguez appeared for several minutes during a club match Tuesday using her crutches. She also received hugs and handshakes from both teams throughout the evening, sharing a few tearful moments with friends. And, perhaps most importantly, she continued to inspire those around her – especially her mother.

“With one leg, being so strong. I’m a very proud mom, a very proud mom,” said Janet’s mother, Carmen Urenda.

Urenda says that she had a bit of a surprise for her daughter after the game. She says The University of the Southwest in Hobbs plans to honor a scholarship they previously promised Janet.

“She’s getting a scholarship. I think she doesn’t know exactly that she’s getting a scholarship, but we are all excited,” said Urenda.

And she’s sure her daughter will continue to serve as an inspiration at the next level as well.

“I’m very proud of my daughter. I can see that she has a lot of potential,” she said. “Everybody can do whatever they want to. And there’s an example here.”