LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — For four years, Aracelli Hernandez has been a constant at Durango High School — a varsity volleyball player, a three-year captain, and a three-time state champion, including back-to-back titles.
As a center, her voice guided every point, and her leadership shaped the culture of a team built on trust and connection.
"I feel like my teammates rely on me a lot for what they need to know, for what's going on on the court and where they are," Hernandez said.
That same consistency carried into the classroom, where Hernandez balanced practices, games, and honors classes, graduating with a 4.1 GPA.
"I try to stay on top of the work and do as much as I can to exceed with all of my classes," Hernandez said.
🏐 WATCH 🏐 West Coast Trial Lawyers presented Durango High School senior Aracelli Hernandez with December's Academic Athlete of the Month award:
Durango is more than just a school for this family — it's a legacy.
"I'm a Vegas native, born and raised, so I am also a Durango alumni," Hernandez's mom told Channel 13.
When asked who played the biggest role in helping her become both a standout student and athlete, the answer came quickly for Hernandez: "Probably my mom."
"She's always been there," Hernandez said, fighting back tears.
It was a moment that said everything about support, sacrifice, and the foundation behind her success.
"It kind of means everything to me, and it's kind of nostalgic knowing that my baby is graduating from here," Hernandez's mom said.
Hernandez is headed to Northern Arizona University, with plans to study forensic science.
Academic Athlete of the Month is sponsored by West Coast Trial Lawyers.
-
A’ja Wilson, Jackie Young combine for 50 points to lead the Aces past the Tempo
A’ja Wilson scored 26 points, Jackie Young had a season-high 24 points to go with 12 assists, and the Las Vegas Aces beat the Toronto Tempo 109-83 on Monday night.
World Cup fever fuels soccer surge in Vegas
The World Cup drew millions of fans across 104 matches, fueling the excitement in the local soccer community.
World Cup fever fuels soccer surge in Las Vegas
Local soccer players and fans say the World Cup has sparked new interest in the sport with connections to the Las Vegas Lights adding to the excitement.
WTA introduces gene testing for all players on women's tennis tour
The Women’s Tennis Association is introducing one-off mandatory gene-testing for all players effective from Tuesday – a requirement to compete at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics
