"Impossible is just a big word thrown around by small men who find it easier to live in the world they've been given, then to explore the power they have to change it," said boxing legend Muhammad Ali.

Although this quote was said during the apex of Ali’s boxing career, he easily could have referred to Brandywine High School (Wilmington, Del.) football player Felicia Perez who refuses to believe anything is impossible.

“I’m not a follower. I’m a leader. So I decided I was going to play a predominantly male sport,” Perez told USA Today.

Although there are multiple examples of women competing on the high school gridiron, Perez stands out for her 4-foot-8 frame and her desire to play physically-demanding positions. On defense, she plays middle linebacker, and on offense, she prefers fullback.

Perez can be seen unabashedly sticking her nose into the pile and hitting someone on almost every play she is on the field. She wouldn’t want it any other way.

“I like the adrenaline. Every hit, every play you go full speed,” Perez said.

Her love for the sport has been insatiable from a young age and has only grown over time.

“She eats, breathes, sleeps football…She always has. She grew up watching high school on Friday nights, college on Saturday and professional on Sunday,” said Perez’s mother Andrea Perrin.

Perez has overcome massive odds and inspired others in the process. However, Perez isn’t just on the gridiron as an inspirational story, she is a leader and contributor to her school’s varsity team.

“She’s probably the biggest leader out of all of us. Felicia is always trying to get everyone hyped,” said Brandywine quarterback Jack Russell.

Coach Isaiah Mays agreed that she is more than an inspirational story, she is an inspirational contributor.

“We got a player on our team, it just so happens she is a girl,” said Mays.

SEE ALSO: First ever female Florida varsity high school football coach seeks her first win

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Photo Courtesy of Brandywine HS - bulldogssports.com
Felicia Perez, left front row, #26