Jaysalie Cortes is a dynamic two-way athlete who plays safety, receiver, and sometimes rusher for the HTA Travel Team and the Taft Eagles, one of the top high school flag football teams in Chicago. She believes that versatility is key, knowing how to move around the field makes her a smarter, more complete player and a reliable presence wherever her team needs her most. With deep roots in the game, Jaysalie grew up battling on all-boys teams and is now using that grit, talent, and leadership to dominate in elite tournaments and uplift the next generation of girls in football. With mentors who’ve shaped her, music that hypes her, and a passion that never quits, Jaysalie is proving that heart, hustle, and confidence are the real keys to the game.

What inspired you to start playing football, and how did you get involved with 7-on-7 or Flag Football?
My uncle was a big inspiration to me when I was younger. I remember playing catch with him and all the other boys in the neighborhood. That’s how I first got interested in football. Later, I started playing for a Little League team in Canaryville called the Lions. It was an all-boys, full-contact football team, and from there, I fell in love with the sport.
My mom is also a huge inspiration—she’s always been my biggest motivator, driving me to practices and games and supporting me every step of the way. I started playing flag football because I’d always played regular football with the boys. I got involved with 7-on-7 when I wanted to improve my skills in a fast-paced, competitive setting. It’s helped me work on speed, catching, and quick decisions—all things that make me a better player.

How has playing in the Elite 7-on-7 or Flag Football program helped shape your identity as a player?
Being on the HTA travel flag football team has helped me grow a lot as an athlete, especially through the training. I’ve gotten faster, stronger, and my football IQ has gone way up. I also transferred schools to focus more on flag football and joined the Taft Eagles, one of the best flag teams in Chicago. Even though I’ve mostly been attending their camps so far, they’ve been really competitive and fun. It’s helped me build stamina and sharpen my game in every way.

How do you prepare mentally for big tournaments?
I focus on staying confident and reminding myself that I’m ready. You can’t be scared or nervous going into games—that’s how you’ll play. When you’re confident, nothing else matters except how you perform. I lock in, focus on myself, and remind myself that I’ve got this. I don’t give up, and I show up believing in myself every single time.

What’s your pregame routine or hype music?
I blast rap in my headphones before every game—it gets me in the zone. “Let It All Work Out” by Lil Wayne is one of my favorites. It really hits deep and keeps me grounded. I also love Kendrick Lamar—his music always gets me pumped up. I like to visualize the big plays I’m going to make, like perfect routes, big stops, and even hearing the crowd scream. That energy fuels me.

What’s your mindset when you step onto the field?
I’m locked in. I block out distractions and focus on my assignment, my team, and my role. Confidence and calmness help me perform at my best. I go out there ready to work, stay sharp, and leave it all on the field.

How do you stay motivated during the off-season and intense training periods?
I keep my goals in mind and remember why I play. Even when it’s tough, I push through because I know it’ll all pay off. I’m committed to improving every single day, no matter how hard the grind is.

Who is your biggest influence on or off the field and why?
My biggest influence is myself. I do this for the younger me—the little girl who loved football and dreamed big. I’m her motivation now. Everything depends on me: my mindset, effort, and belief.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned through this program?
Patience truly pays off. Progress isn’t always fast, but it’s worth it. The key is to never give up and trust the process. This program has taught me that your time will come if you keep pushing.

How do the coaches and mentors in this program impact your development?
They don’t just build athletes—they build leaders. They’ve helped me grow my confidence and my game, and they create real opportunities for girls like me. They believe in us and show us how far we can go.

What does it mean to you to represent your team in Elite 7-on-7 or Flag Football tournaments?
It means everything. It’s about showing the world how hard girls work and how powerful we are as a team. We stick together and prove every game that we belong and that this sport is for us, too.

How do you bounce back after a tough loss or mistake?
I take it as a learning moment. I don’t dwell on it—I figure out what to fix and come back stronger. You can’t let it break you. You just keep going and stay positive.

What motivates you to keep grinding during the off-season?
My passion and my drive to be better. I know someone else is out there working hard, so I push myself to be even better. Staying consistent is what sets me apart.

What’s your dream school or team you’d love to play for one day?
I want to play for the USA National Team and compete in the Olympics. That’s my dream. I also want to play college football, but I’m still looking at my options to find the right fit.

What do you do for fun when you’re not playing football?
I love spending time with my family. They help me relax, recharge, and stay grounded. They’re my biggest supporters.

How have your coaches and parents helped you grow as a player and person?
My mom and my coaches push me every day. My mom makes everything possible and motivates me nonstop. My coaches challenge me, teach me discipline, and help me grow on and off the field.

How do you handle pressure or adversity during high-stakes games?
I stay calm and focus on what I can control. I trust my training, break things down play by play, and stay mentally strong. Adversity only makes me more locked in.

What’s your favorite route to run and why?
The whip route—it’s my most confident move. I’ve even gone viral for it. It lets me break fast, get open, and take off for a touchdown. It shows off my speed, agility, and footwork.

What are your short-term and long-term football goals?
Short-term: keep improving, get stronger, help my team win. Long-term: play in the Olympics. I used to dream of the NFL, but now I’m chasing the biggest stage girls can play on—and I’ll do whatever it takes to get there.

How do you build chemistry and trust with your teammates?
By practicing together, communicating, and learning each other’s strengths. Trust comes from showing up, doing your job, and supporting one another. That’s how you win in fast-paced games.

What advice would you give to younger players who want to join a program like this?
If you’re a girl, don’t be afraid. Football is for you, too. Work hard, stay confident, and show everyone what you’re capable of. Even if you’re not the biggest or the tallest—don’t let anyone count you out. The smallest players are often the strongest and fastest.
And most of all—never give up. No matter what challenges you face, keep chasing your dream.

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