I didn't have outstanding numbers coming out of college and I'm not 6'6 with 230 lbs.

Growing up in Paterson wasn't the easiest thing.

I knew what type of player I was: a free agent, a small kid who came from a small school.

My mom lived by herself with two kids. Sacrifice was the name of the game at our house.

I can walk into Walmart in California and not really get mentioned for being a football player.

My uncles and other relatives are against encouraging girls in every aspect, and that includes sports. I hardly interact with them. My parents are more open. They back me all the way.

I was my father's son and my mother's daughter. There was never any time when I felt I wasn't equally capable - whether it was being the only girl in the county who could hit a jump shot in basketball or playing first base in the baseball with the boys. I was always encouraged to do whatever I wanted to do.

The only thing that bothers me is that I am in good health and that I am able to play football.