Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated annually from September 15 to October 15. This celebration honors the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Americans with ancestry from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. This month-long observance originally began as a week-long celebration but was expanded to include3 30 days in order to recognize the role Hispanic Americans have played in the history of the United States. The choice of September 15th as the annual start date of Hispanic Heritage Month is significant because it aligns with the independence anniversaries of several Latin American countries. The Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) is proud to support this endeavor and recognizes Hispanic student-athletes for Fun Fact Fridays.

Name: Maria Sanchez Ponce

Sport: Women's Basketball

Hometown: Concil de la Frontera, Spain

Tell us something unique about yourself and your country.
I'm originally from Concil, a small town in the south of Spain, right by the beach. Something unique about Spain is how every region has its own culture, traditions, and even ways of speaking, it feels like many countries in one.
 

Name some popular foods you miss eating from your country.
The food that I miss the most is paella or tortilla de patatas.
 

What are your most cherished traditions and why are they important to you?
One tradition I cherish is the Feria, where the whole town comes together to dance, eat, and celebrate in colorful dresses and music. I also love how Christmas in Spain lasts until January 6th with "Los Reyes Magos" (Three Kings Day). These traditions are important because they bring families together.