South St. Paul’s Alida Ahern Thrives in Two Sports Despite Anxiety Challenges

In South St. Paul, senior Alida Ahern is making a name for herself as she balances two sports this fall: soccer and football. As a goalkeeper on the soccer team and a kicker for the Packers football team, Ahern approaches each game with confidence and determination. “Sports are kind of my outlet,” she explained. “Being able to go out after school with no pressure, you can just be a kid and be with your friends. You’re there to play your sport.”

This season has seen Ahern hit her first successful field goal in a game, a 26-yard kick against St. Croix Lutheran, followed by two more field goals during a match against North St. Paul. Tackling challenges head-on has been essential for Ahern. “I just had to go in there with no fear,” she said about joining the football team.

Ahern’s journey hasn’t been easy. Her father, Pat Ahern, described the anxiety they’ve faced as a family. Phone calls from school often brought concern. “I would just wait for the phone call,” he recalled. Pat and his ex-wife, Kim Baker, supported Alida after she transferred from Cretin-Derham Hall during her sophomore year due to anxiety issues. They made sure she received counseling and encouraged her to keep pursuing her passions, especially sports.

Despite her struggles, Ahern realized she needed to overcome her fears. She says, “I take it day by day,” reflecting on her mental challenges and the pressure she once felt surrounding both school and sports. High school hockey coach Dave Palmquist has also recognized a positive change in her mentality. “Her mindset has changed from worrying about what others think of her to being the best version of herself,” he noted. Due to her inspiring growth, she was named one of the senior captains this season.

Off the field, Ahern finds strength in her family and faith. She attends Crossroads Church with her teammates and recently marked her left wrist with a tattoo of a cross and a message saying, “Love Dad” in honor of her father. She almost broke her father’s record for longest field goal too—her attempt of 50 yards fell just short of his 48-yard mark.

With the support of those around her and a new outlook on life, Alida Ahern continues to embrace her love for sports while managing her anxiety. Her story serves as a reminder of strength and resilience in facing life’s obstacles.