MONTE ALTO – Anahi Castillo was born without a left hand. She’s never used that an excuse in her pursuit to participate in athletics. The Monte Alto sophomore competes in five sports for her school, including basketball.

Castillo feels right at home on the court. Whether it’s working on her jump shot or dribbling her way to the hoop for a layup, playing ball with one hand isn’t easy.

“It’s hard trying to catch the ball when I don’t have my other hand,” said Castillo. “So when they pass to my left side, it’s hard to catch it. Trying to dribble with my left hand can be tough too so I’m trying to work on that as well.”

Castillo grew up enjoying sports with her siblings at home. However, playing at school tested her emotions.

“When I was in elementary school, I would be bullied a lot because I only had one hand,” said Castillo. “They would say that I was bad and I couldn’t shoot. It got me mad and I cried at home. It’s okay though. After practice and practice, I’m on the varsity now.”

Castillo sets a positive example for her squad.

“She’s very resilient as an athlete, as a person,” said Monte Alto girls coach Rebecca Diaz. “A strong competitor with a no-excuse attitude. There’s nothing to stop her.”

The Monte Alto sophomore has a strong message for kids with physical limitations who are hesitant to play sports.

“I would tell them to go for it,” said Castillo. “To keep on trying and trying. If I could do it, they could do it. Nothing hard. Just keep on playing.”

Castillo and the Blue Devils’ next game is Tuesday at home against IDEA Frontier. Once basketball season wraps up, Castillo tells CHANNEL 5 Sports, she plans to play softball.