Americas High School's Na’Sya Atkins had more to celebrate on Senior Night, Feb. 6, than just her on-court success. The varsity girls’ basketball team had defeated Parkland High School in their final game of the season when Atkins received an unforgettable surprise.
Her father, Michael Atkins, whom she had not seen in two years, secretly stood beside her on the court, disguised as the school’s mascot, Travis the Trailblazer. When the crowd cheered “Senior Night,” Na’Sya Atkins recognized his voice and was brought to tears by the emotional reunion.
Na’Sya Atkins is a standout multisport athlete. She was named Most Valuable Player during the inaugural flag football championship game in May 2025. This fall, she was interviewed by the NFL about her team’s success. She is also a champion basketball player and a record-breaking track-and-field athlete.
In addition to her athletic success, Na’Sya Atkins maintains a 3.7 GPA and is on track to graduate in June with both her high school diploma and her associate degree from El Paso Community College through the Trailblazers Early College High School program.
Her father, Michael Atkins, a 20‑year U.S. military veteran, currently serves as a police officer with the Hopkinsville Police Department in Kentucky. He traveled to El Paso to celebrate this special night with his daughter.
The surprise reunion was a pivotal moment for Na’Sya and her family and was an unforgettable moment that added to her remarkable achievements in Socorro ISD.