We are excited for you to look through and read VarCity 3.0, it’s our best issue yet. We also want you to check out our social media platforms (Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat) and our website. Our videos are pretty cool so you need to check them out. The team has expanded and this issue you’ll be getting a chance to read articles from Karen and Jesus for the first time; they will both be contributing on a regular basis and you are going to love their writing styles. Counting VarCity 3.0, we have now told over 35 unique stories that cover sports, health, or fitness from the area. Our identity is to tell the story of our subject in a positive manner that promotes our subject in the best light possible. We pride ourselves on giving exposure to those that deserve it, those that fit the mold of a VarCity athlete. This issue we are introducing a new segment to the magazine that coincides with our Body Fuel series that is featured on our website and social medias. St Augustine HS graduate Lorena Carmona, a Nutritionist that specializes in weight loss, will be writing about eating healthy in the Hispanic household. As we move further towards the end of the year expect to see VarCity involved with some projects helping the City of Laredo promote the many fitness related activities they have. We have been working hard to continue to stay ahead of the game while maintaining the title as Laredo’s Premier Sports Magazine. Thank you to all our sponsors that have helped us out; Gallery 201, Rotex Trucking, Sunbelt Air Conditioning, Trevino Eye Clinic, Laredo Sports Medicine, Casa Blanca Golf Course, Martinez Pharmacy, and all our other sponsors. If anyone out there is interested in becoming a sponsor please reach out to us, we always find a way to make it worthwhile for our clients. If anyone is interested in employment let us know too. We have all different types of positions! Enjoy the stories in this issue; our cover squad is made up of some of the best of the best high school football players in the city. Sincerely, L. Adrian Zapata Editor-in-Chief, VarCity Magazine
Who has been your biggest inspiration growing up? Jesus Christ, my mother and father, & my grandma Citi Who is your favorite athlete? Dwyane Wade Favorite sport? Football & Basketball Favorite team? Dallas Cowboys What sports do you play? Just cheerleading What is your favorite subject in school? Math What college do you plan on attending? University of Texas at Austin What do you want to be when you grow up? I want to own my own cosmetic line Besides cheerleading, what do you like to do in your free time? I like doing makeup turotials on youtube. What is your favorite food? Chicken Alfredo from Johnny Carinos What 3 places would you like to visit? Jersuselum, Cabo San Lucas & Rio De Jinero
From pitching mounds to microphones and cameras, Noraida Negron is a name that’s no stranger to most. The now anchor of KGNS’ morning news has a story that has turned the attention on her this time. As we know, Negron has taken the throne of communal fame in her position with KGNS but before that chapter began, she dedicated her heart and soul to her first love-- softball. Noraida Negron, daughter of a former softball player herself, first fell in love with the sport at age thirteen after abundantly tagging along with her mom to her practices. Through trial and error, Negron attempted to find her own spot in the game and upon stepping atop the pitching mound, it was no question where she belonged. Although the aspiring pitcher began
late in her youth, she didn’t let that hinder her and persevered to do her mom proud. Since then, there’s been no force that can come between ball and the girl with jersey #8. Noraida knew she wasn’t the fastest pitcher but she did have a lot of movement in her pitching. She mastered pitches like the rise ball and was able to execute great drop balls and change ups.She began playing for little leagues in Puerto Rico and then proceeded to play for high school where she participated in the Junior National Team. As graduation neared and the finish line for her softball career came into view, the dream triumphed on when Noraida got recruited to play for Missouri Valley College. Being the only Hispanic amongst a team of girls
from all over the nation was nothing short of an accomplishment on its own. Noraida was surrounded by people from a variety of ethnicities and found comfort in forming a bond with players that came from Hawaii. At only eighteen, Negron traveled with the national team to the Pan-American games as merely a freshman in college. She played against teams from places like the Dominican Republic and Venezuela. Along with her position with the national team, Negron was able to play against the teams that would wound up going to the Olympics someday. “The discipline I had to deal with and learn was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do but it made me who I am today. It prepared me for the real world,” She spoke proudly. When I asked her if it ever got too much, if softball ever lost its appeal to her, without a hesitation she said, “Absolutely not”. Eventually, Noraida had to stop playing softball which hurt her so much. She reasoned with either choosing to continue playing the sport she was passionate about or getting a career. With her Bachelor’s Degree in communications, Noraida found a new home for her heart. She began as a producer and then proceeded to become a journalist. On her first day as a journalist, she felt the rush of the position as she covered a story on a bank robbery that was taking place as she was covering it. It was an unforgettable memory to say the least. After 6 years of being in Laredo, Texas, Noraida began a new journey as an anchor on KGNS where she remains today. Someday, Negron would love to open up her own softball school particularly for the city of Laredo. She’s discovered the severity of our city’s lack of proper guidance and training when it comes to softball especially for pitchers and is an advocate for changing that. She currently hosts softball clin-
ics and has a cluster of little girls who are the up and coming. She has trained local natives such as Bonnie Tijerina who currently plays for United High School. “Laredo softball is not up to par with the kind of softball that is played out of our bounds. I want to help prepare our girls.” Negron said. As we drew our interview to a close, I asked Noraida if she had one moment in time in her softball fairytale-esque story that she’d hold onto forever and as the question left my mouth, a huge smile adorned her face. “I was in my prime, I would say. We had what we call the superior league which is like professional softball but in Puerto Rico. There was a team with all the women who played with my mom in her generation’s national team. They were invincible. My mom was coaching my team so I got to pitch that game. I struck them all out. I was able to strike out even their best hitter. I’ll never forget that.” The legacy doesn’t end here. All you baseball and softball fans should be thrilled to hear that her children, Samuel (6) and Abigail (3) are in the works for becoming prodigies themselves. Samuel has spent his entire summer training with his grandma in Puerto Rico and Negron is at the edge of her seat wondering what kind of baseball player he’ll return when the summer draws to a close. As for little Abigail, she began playing t-ball this year and like mother like daughter, fell straight in love. It’s no question that this sport is ingrained in their DNA. For more on Noraida Negron, be sure to catch her on KGNS News Today. Written by: Val Valdez
Who has been your biggest inspiration growing up? My Mom Favorite Pro Athlete? Tim Duncan Favorite Volleyball Player? Megan Courtney from Penn State. What sports do you play? Volleyball & Cheer What is your favorite subject in school? Math
Who has been your biggest inspiration growing up? My mom & dad
What college do you plan on on doing after High School? UT or TCU
Favorite NFL player? Le’veon Bell
What do you want to be when you grow up? Accountant or Fire Fighter
Favorite NFL team? Pittsburg Steelers What sports do you play? Only football What is your favorite subject in school? Accounting
Besides sports, what do you like to do in your free time? I like to hang out with my friends and I love to eat. What is your favorite food? Pork Chops
What college do you plan on attending? UTPA @ Edinburg What do you want to be when you grow up? Physical Therapist Besides sports, what do you like to do in your free time? Hang out with my friends. What is your favorite food? Pizza
Although many believe it to be a fad that’s emerged in recent years, CrossFit saw its inception more than 20 years ago by former gymnast Greg Glassman with the first affiliated gym in Santa Cruz, California. Today, it has evolved into a high intensity interval training that relies on strength and conditioning fitness methodology in order to stimulate the muscles of the body. With over 10,000 devoted followers of the practice, we happened to run across Ryan Bender, qualifier for the South Texas regional competition. Bender has led an active lifestyle for most of his life. In high school, he played baseball and football in order to stay active. He attended Laredo Community College and played for the baseball team there. Ultimately, like most devoted athletes, he wanted to obtain a little extra out of his fitness routine. He started looking for ways to achieve this, and four years ago he stumbled upon the practice of CrossFit at Gold’s Gym, an act he proclaims has changed his life. It wasn’t until two years of consistently practicing it that he decided to pursue it in a more devoted fashion. Bender began to take his passion for the
training and turn it into a full-time pursuit. The CrossFit Games, a highly prestigious competition of CrossFitters across the globe, started catching Bender’s eye, so he decided to set his mind on attending. The CrossFit Games consist of a three step journey. The first stage, called the open, considers the top athletes of 17 regions to qualify. Out of 12,000 competitors, only 48 participants are selected as regional qualifiers. Bender’s commitment and devotion certainly paid off, and he was able toqualify two years in a row in 2013 and 2014. Once qualifying for the regionals, there is a live three-day competition that is held over three weekends in May, and the top athletes from each combined regions advance to the next step. Finally, the elite gather in the Reebok CrossFit Games where only the fittest 40 men and 40 women in the world are able to compete for the title of Fittest Man and Woman on Earth. Although Bender has not been able to reach the final stage, he continues to devote his time, passion, and commitment to qualifying. His goal for 2016 is to continue his training and make it to the
final stage of the CrossFit Games. His past years have served as a lesson on what he needs to focus on and how he should better conduct his training. He now follows a rigorous meal plan in order to stay fit and keep his body in shape, not only to be better prepared for his own training, but to keep a healthy lifestyle overall. His advice for fellow athletes and fitness lovers is that, although it can be challenging at times, keeping your mind focused on your goal and not allow distractions to get in your way is a helpful way to stay on track. After all, it is all worth it in the end. Bender’s long-term goals include: opening up his own gym and devoting himself full-time to the sport. Not only is he passionate about his own training regime, but about incorporating it in the community as well. Although there are many devoted CrossFitters already, Bender comments on his desire to make it a practice in schools and local Boys’ and Girls’ Clubs. Here at VarCity, we are sure that with his passion,
commitment, and discipline, Ryan Bender will be able to accomplish his goals, and promote health and fitness practices to our fellow Laredoans. Written by: Karen Gaytan Interview by: Val Valdez
Who has been your biggest inspiration growing up? My biggest inspiration is my dad Favorite NFL player? Demarcus Thomas
What do you want to be when you grow up? Police Officer
Favorite NFL team? Denver Broncos What sports do you play? Football & Track What is your favorite subject in school? Math
Who has been your biggest inspiration growing up? My biggest inspiration growing up is my mom. Favorite athlete? Kerri Walsh Favorite Volleyball Team? USA Men’s Team What sports do you play? Volleyball, Track & Track What is your favorite subject in school? Math What college do you plan on on doing after High School?
What college do you plan on on doing after High School? LSU
Besides sports, what do you like to do in your free time? Going to the ranch. What is your favorite food? McDonald’s
University of Texas at Austin What do you want to be when you grow up? I would like to be a volleyball coach when I grow up. Besides sports, what do you like to do in your free time? I like to hang out with my family & friends. What is your favorite food? Chinese Food.
Who has been your biggest inspiration growing up? My Mom Favorite Pro Athlete? Tim Duncan Favorite Pro Team? San Antonio Spurs What sports do you play? Volleyball & Track What is your favorite subject in school? Science is my favorite school subject.
Who has been your biggest inspiration growing up? My Parents
What do you want to be when you grow up? Science & Technology
Favorite NFL player? Ray Lewis
Besides sports, what do you like to do in your free time? I like to play Madden with my boys & also Battlefield
Favorite NFL team? Baltimore Ravens What sports do you play? Football, Powerlifting & Track & Field What is your favorite subject in school? Football Class What college do you plan on on doing after High School? Attend college
What is your favorite food? Anything at the buffet. Which game are you looking forward to the most this upcoming season? Senior night vs. United
What college do you plan on attending? Texas State or UTSA What do you want to be when you grow up? Orthapedic Surgeon Besides sports, what do you like to do in your free time? Video Games..I like Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3 What is your favorite food? Bacon
Who has been your biggest inspiration growing up? My parents Favorite NFL player? Tom Brady Favorite team in tennis? New England Patriots What sports do you play? Baseball What is your favorite subject in school? Math
Who has been your biggest inspiration growing up? My parents
What college do you plan on attending? University of Texas at Austin
Favorite NFL player? Tom Brady
What do you want to be when you grow up? Petroleum Engineer
Favorite team in tennis? New England Patriots What sports do you play? Baseball What is your favorite subject in school? Math
Besides sports, what do you like to do in your free time? Go Fishing What is your favorite food? All types of Mexican food!
What college do you plan on attending? University of Texas at Austin What do you want to be when you grow up? Petroleum Engineer Besides sports, what do you like to do in your free time? Go Fishing What is your favorite food? All types of Mexican food!
Who has been your biggest inspiration growing up? My uncle, he played football for Nixon. I watched his game as a kid and wanted to play like him. Favorite NFL Player? Bryanh Bosworth, he plays the same position I play. Favorite NFL Team? Pittsburg Steelers. It runs in the family. What sports do you play? Football & Baseball What is your favorite subject in school? Math comes easy to me. What college do you plan on attending? Texas A&M What do you want to be when you grow up? I would like to be a football coach. Besides sports, what do you like to do in your free time? Fishing & Hunting What is your favorite food? I love wings & pizza!
Who is your favorite pro athlete? Micha Hancock
LBJ
What school do you like playing against?
Who was your biggest inspiration growing up? My Parents
What would you like to do when you grow up? Become a registered nurse What do you like doing on your free time? Hanging out with friends and family. What is your favorite food? Shrimp Alfredo
What college do you plan on attending? UTSA
Who has been your biggest inspiration growing up? My father, he always pushed and motivated me. Favorite NFL Player? Dez Bryant Favorite NFL Team? Dallas Cowboys
What college do you plan on attending? Texas A&M Kingsville What do you want to be when you grow up? Either an athletic Trainer or a coach.
What sports do you play? Football, soccer & track. The 100m & 200m in Track.
Besides sports, what do you like to do in your free time? Video games. My favorite game is Madden.
What is your favorite subject in school? I really like Math.
What is your favorite food? Pepperoni Pizza
Who has been your biggest inspiration growing up? My inspiration growing up was my Dad. He is a great man, and it is an honor and priviledge to get to play for him. Who is your favorite pro athlete? My favorite athlete even though I play football is Kevin Durant because of his hard work ethic. Who is your favorite NFL Player? Odell Beckam Jr. Favorite NFL Team Dallas Cowboys What sports do you play? I play football, basketball & track. What is your favorite subject in school? Math What do you plan on doing after high school? I hope to attend a big Division 1 University. What do you want to be when you grow up? I would like to be a sports doctor. Besides sports, what do you like to do in your free time? Hunting & Fishing. What is your favorite food? Anything and everything!
Who has been your biggest inspiration growing up? My brother Favorite tennis player? Serena Williams Favorite team in tennis? St. Augustin What sports do you play? Volleyball What is your favorite subject in school? English
Who has been your biggest inspiration growing up? My dad Who is your favorite athlete? Tim Duncan Favorite tennis player? Novack Djokovic Favorite team in tennis? St. Augustin
What college do you plan on attending? Texas A&M University What do you want to be when you grow up? Psychology Besides sports, what do you like to do in your free time? Be with friends What is your favorite food? Sushi
Chemistry What college do you plan on attending? Texas A&M University What do you want to be when you grow up? Orthopedic Doctor
What sports do you play? Basketball
Besides sports, what do you like to do in your free time? Read/Sleep
What is your favorite subject in school?
What is your favorite food? Buffalo Wings
Christine “Tina” Treviño, 68, works at Treviño Eye Clinic as an optical office administrator by day. However, by night, she has a favorite pastime. Treviño lives for the love of the game of tennis. She used to play four to five times a week when she lived in San Antonio. “In the late seventies, when we came to Laredo, there weren’t many places to play and fewer females playing,” Treviño said. She has volunteered as a tennis coach for students from St. Augustine High School since the 1980s, which is about the time her husband began the Laredo Tennis Association along with other local business owners; they then began holding their primary meetings at the Market Street Tennis Courts. Treviño has been President of the LTA for the past four years. Among her laundry list of duties as President involve: administrative work, recruiting volunteers, program coordination, event organizing, marketing, grant writing, and lobbying for more tennis facilities in Laredo. In addition to her duties, about a year ago, Treviño welcomed the opportunity to create a tennis program for the blind. The United States Tennis Association and the USTA Texas Tennis Section have incorporated in their program structure, a component called Adaptive Tennis. This is tennis that is for anyone who has any type or level of special needs. The LTA was invited to meet with tennis pros from McAllen and Mexico in hopes of getting the program off the ground in Laredo. “From the initial meeting the concept was accepted by by LTA members-- Claudia Villarreal, Amarilis Espinosa and myself,” Treviño said. She said an instructor from McAllen would come to Laredo twice a week for three weeks to teach a class, and it was up to the LTA to supply the students, facility, funding, and volunteers. The first official tennis class for the blind in Laredo was held in October 2013. Ten students attended.
“Using special foam balls with ball bearings inside for sound, QuickStart tennis racquets and an indoor gym, so that the sound of the ball could be heard, these young students began an adventure into a sport they never could have imagined to be participating in,” Treviño said. “It was a challenge and a wonderful opportunity to grow in a different direction.”According to Treviño, a blind player must first learn basic physical skills needed for playing tennis. These skills include running, sliding, and strengthening their muscles. Their auditory skills are used for listening for a belllike sound in a ball being hit in their direction. They must be able to react by moving toward the sound, position their body, grip the racquet, and swing through the ball. Mateus Campos is the tennis pro who coordinates the Blind Tennis program in Laredo. He and over 14 volunteers coach a myriad of students from all age ranges. “Seeing them develop and feel accomplished,”Treviño said, “is the most rewarding part of the program.” “Previously the young people had been told to ‘ sit there so you don’t get hurt’ and now they hear, ‘ You can do it!’ And the greatest joy is to see these students come back the next Tuesday asking for the pro and volunteers to push them further,” Treviño said. Despite the tenacity and accomplishments of the program, Treviño said funding has been an issue. Through donations and continued support from local entities, it will continue to run. Additionally, the LTA also has programs for people ages 18 and over, a Stroke Support Program, for stroke survivors wanting to exercise and a junior team for ages 5 to 18. “Laredo has the right weather, the young people who have the ganas to play year around, the talent and the drive to achieve ... For the first time in 20 years there are tennis programs, pros and passionate tennis players who are ready to help change the sport scene in Laredo. This is our time to exercise, beat diabetes and obesity and we can do it with tennis. It is a sport for everybody,” Treviño said. For more information on the organization, “Like” Laredo Tennis Association on Facebook, visit laredotennis.com or call Tina Treviño at 956740-8462.
Having a passion for something is what makes life worth living. Whatever that passion may be: cars, art, science, technology, traveling, music, sports, or anything a person can devote their life to can be a great way to one day look back and feel that you spent the time you had on earth living and not simply breathing. It is that same passion that can drive a person to be the best at it. That desire can be shaped, like a raw piece of iron, through heat, muscle, and skill into a drive for greatness. Ignacio Tellez is
one person who discovered at an early age exactly what his passion in life was going to be, and it’s a beautiful thing when that passion can be shared with the whole family. Tellez is the new senior quarterback for United High School and is leading the Longhorns this football season. For those that have yet to hear, he is still in the spotlight from last season when he broke the City of Laredo’s record for running 601 yards in a single game. But what were the factors that shaped his desire into a record breaking drive to
be the best at what he loves? Talking to Tellez, we quickly found out that the main force behind his drive is his family. During his youth, he first started playing football around the age of eight. Tellez has two older brothers who were playing football at the time, and it is so often the case that younger siblings want to follow their older siblings in whatever they do; so it was only a matter of time before Tellez also became a football player just like his older brothers. Support can
sometimes be the missing factor that separates a good player from a great player. From the moment, Tellez stepped foot on the field his family have never missed a game and a chance to come together as a family to support one of their own. With the level of commitment and support he has under his wing, it will make the burden on his shoulders of being a quarterback seem less heavy. Being a quarterback entails having one eye in the moment and the other predicting the next. Tellez has future plans of using his passion to continue his education after high school and play college football while studying kinesiology at a four year university. He hopes to one day be able to pass on his passion, as a coach, in order to help future young players shape their desire into a drive for greatness as well. It goes to show that Tellez truly has a passion for football and wants to help future generations of players reach their full potential. People that achieve great things in life are not born into them, it takes critical events in one’s life that steers them into the path of opportunity; where they will have one moment to decide if they want it or not. Tellez has already shown us that he wants it by what he showed us last season, and with his family behind him. There is no reason why the opportunity to achieve greatness will not appear before him again. We look forward to seeing him in action this season and future season to come. Written by: Jesus Garcia
Playing football since the 4th grade, Johnny Valdivia is a senior running back for the Martin High School varsity football team. Starting as a family past time playing with his cousins and uncles, Valdivia has been a devoted football fan from a young age, diligently dedicating his time to the sport and his team. He shared with us his passion for the sport, his challenges and the inspiration he’s found in other football players. Valdivia shares with us his excitement about the current football season. “The team is doing great thus far,” he states filled with energy, “I would like to think we can
even be district champs.” Even though they are a small team, Valdivia says they are a team that communicates excellently. “Relying on your teammates, being able to trust them in and out of the field – those are crucial components that take a team to victory.” Valdivia, who has been a part of the varsity football team since his sophomore year of high school, has been able to bond and develop strong relationships with his teammates. “My favorite part about our team is that we have a lot of leadership, and we have a lot of confidence. Even though we are the smaller and are oftentimes referred to as the underdogs, we all
agree that we like to prove people wrong. We show them in the field, in our plays, that we have what it takes to win.” Coming from such a young mind, it is refreshing and exciting to hear Valdivia so excited and determined to not let the circumstances of his team define their destiny. Not only is this a lesson that applies to the dynamic he has with his teammates, but in his own personal endeavors as well. “I have been playing football for a long time, and I love it,” he says with a mixture of joy and hesitation, “but sometimes being a short guy on the field doesn’t play too well in our favor.” Valdivia is 5’6,”a height considered below average
for high school athletes. However, being a running back, Valdivia mentions this gives him a particular ability to be quicker than the rest of the players on the field. He’s been drawing inspiration for years from his favorite college football team, the University of Oregon. Having never been a fan of the big leagues, Valdivia says he has been following the path of Oregon for quite some time now. “De’Anthony Thomas is actually my favorite player. He started at the University of Oregon a couple of years ago. In comparison to the average football
player, Thomas is not that tall, but he’s a great running back. I always admired the way he played and how he was able to own up to his height.” Thomas currently plays for the Kansas City Chiefs as a running back. Perhaps, what is most impressive about Valdivia is not his talent on the field, but his humility outside of it. As we spoke to him, we could clearly hear his passion for the sport, and his love for the game. When speaking about important football figures in his life,
he admires resilience over fame, team work over victory, and determination over titles. In the future, he would like to play football and perhaps obtain a scholarship as a result of it. He is interested in pursuing a degree in either agriculture or in law, but regardless of the path he ends up taking, Valdivia is certain of one thing only – football will continue to remain a constant in his life, regardless of the plays in his life. Written by: Karen Gaytan
Recently named John B. Alexander High School varsity captain, Mauricio Gutierrez has been an avid football fan from an early age. What started as a pastime many years ago, has molded him into being an active young man representing one of the best football teams in the city. He talked to us here at VarCity over his beginnings with the sport, why he is particularly excited about this year’s season, and where he sees football taking him in the future. Starting in the 3rd grade, when his younger brother introduced him to flag football, Gutierrez has made sure being healthy and staying active remain integral parts of his life. “I started playing as a young kid with my little brother and our neigh-
bor. His dad was our coach, and we used to play just as a way to pass the time and have fun.” Eleven years have passed since his passion for football ignited – he has moved on from being defensive end, to defensive tackle. He has played numerous positions throughout his life, including wide receiver, running back, and linebacker all throughout middle school. During his time playing for John B. Alexander he has remained playing on the defensive line, an accomplishment he feels particularly proud of since they have received numerous recognitions and awards. Gutierrez is particularly excited about this upcoming season – John B. Alexander is returning with 8 defensive starters from last year. “We have a great team this year. We have
been practicing for a while, and we believe we have what it takes to go undefeated. Chemistry, character, leadership, support, and trust are what make a team great. These are all qualities I truly believe we have. There’s an unquestionable unity between all of us, and we are ready for one lastrun.” Among his personal goals for this season, Gutierrez would like to see the John B. Alexander team get first state and make the Bulldog Nation proud. Gutierrez feels driven – he says his class is really motivated to make history and leave their mark asthey play one final season for the Bulldogs. Sports have played a large role in Gutierrez’s life. While he started playing for the John B. Alexan-
der team at the end of his freshman year during playoff season, he says remaining fit, healthy, and active have always been high in his list of priorities. When he wasn’t playing football, he was involved in track and other sports. Today, he is sure to work out every day and make exercise a part of his daily routine. He currently works at the Gold’s Gym down by Del Mar. “Football has taught me so many life lessons. I have learned to adjust and manage to different life circumstances. I have developed the necessary discipline and the desire to take care of myself and my body.” As someone that has made sure to be active from an early stage in his life, Gutierrez says he feels it is not only necessary, but it is almost his calling to remain healthy. “I can’t go a day without exercise.” Gutierrez feels that a large part of who he is can be attributed to sports; it is instilled in his daily activities, and in his character. When asked what role football plays in his life, he says he would like to play for El Tec de Monterrey in Guadalajara, where his family is from and where he spent every summer as a child growing up. While he remains open to other options as he pursues his higher education goals, Gutierrez says his passion for sports, exercise, and health will be sure to remain constants for the rest of his life. Written by: Karen Gaytan
Avoiding road rage while on the daily commute, maintaining a happy relationship, studying for a big exam, or waiting to be called in for a job interview to a dream careerare all typical daily challenges. A challenge can present itself unpredictably.Every one of us has a choice to make when a challenge appears in our daily lives. One has thechoice to turn around and run, or keep forward and charge head-on. Tony Luna has made it a life habit to charge onto difficult situations and it’s a habit he doesn’t plan on quitting. Tony Luna is a senior in high school and is the strong side linebacker for LBJ’s Wolf Pack Football Team. His job on the team is literallyto run head-on into the challenges in front of him. His hard-charging reputation on the field earned him
the MVP award last year, and he’s not showing any signs of slowing down anytime soon; he is also the running back for the team. So when he isn’t charging head-on into a challenge then he is running over an obstacle to reach his goal. A natural born athlete, Luna is also a member of LBJ’s basketball team. A team is often considered a family and the comradery between players can be described as brothers, not out of blood, but out of loyalty. Most football players can take comfort in knowing that their teammates have his back both on and off the field. Luna is fortunate enough to not only see his teammates as his brothers, but actually have one of those teammates be his actual brother. Luna’s brother plays middle linebacker for the Wolves.
A real brothers in arms quality comes from being able to play the game with everything you got and having a sibling right by your side. Knowing that no matter how bad things may get, he’ll always have someone he can count on and trust. Luna plans giving it his all this year; his main objective is to acquire a scholarship and study at the University of Texas at San Antonio to play college football. He plans to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management with a minor in Kinesiology. The perfect educational combination for his plans isto start his own business later on after graduation. It is refreshing to see a young man, with great talent, have an idea of what he wants to do in the future. Tony Luna has a hard charging attitude towards life. He believes in never giving up, never losing hope, while always striving for nothing but the absolute best for you. Lessons that he always tries to pass on to others. We face challenges every day and sometimes fail to notice that the pattern in which we decide how to confront a challenger laid out before us will determine the kind of person we will turn out to be. Tony Luna has clearly demonstrated the kind of person he is going to be in life. One who will face life’s great challenges head-on, and without hesitation, as he runs over his obstacles to achieve his ultimate goals in life. Written by: Jesus Garcia
Tradition and legacy run deep at Alexander High School. Position battles begin as early as 7th grade summer camps where young athletes are first exposed to coaches from the higher ranks. Every position on a varsity roster is hard fought and hard earned. It takes a special breed of football player to be the quarterback. At Alexander, one of the most successful football programs in Laredo, it takes an intelligent and talented player to be the starting quarterback. Bulldog Football has been in a Golden Age for the past decade, and it has everything to do with the culture, system, pride and family values the program has established. Coach Joel Lopez has entrenched his organization in the importance of togetherness and to being well prepared. The last decade of football has proven his ideals to be true. To be great, it’s not always about being the best athlete or the fastest kid. To be a quarterback, it isn’t a competition
on who can throw the ball the farthest, and being a coach, isn’t about who can yell out orders the loudest. It takes dedication to your craft and persistence in learning the system that has been put in place. Including this season’s starting quarterback, Zeke Coss, the last 4 starting quarterbacks at Alexander High School have been sons of one of the coaches for the team. Now before anyone jumps to conclusions and says that these young men only got the starting quarterback position because their father was the coach, you must understand the hard work that’s been put in behind the scenes. Nothing is ever given to anyone, especially in Coach Lopez’s locker room. The fact that these four have been starting quarterbacks for their school is a testament to the culture Coach Lopez has instilled in his program. As a coach for the Alexander program, it’s important that you know Coach Lopez’s system like the back
of your hand. Without fully knowing the system, it’s impossible to teach the system to the young up and coming players that are vying for an opportunity to make the team. The idea of having a son in the program, makes coaching and parenting much more interesting. A father-son relationship is a special bond, one that no one can break. A father always believes in his son; he does everything in his power to make sure he succeeds. Now when your son wants to be a quarterback for the program you coach in, the father-son relationship intensifies and encouragement turns into action, action means hard work. Being the son of a coach is a tough task, especially when you are vying for the quarterback position on a successful 6A High School program. When your father is your coach, there are no shortcuts after practice and hard work is always expected. Not only are you trying to do good for your father, but you have to play hard for your coach at the same time; being the coach’s son is no easy task. No position on a football program is given to someone. The quarterback position is no exception, and each and every player who suits up as a quarterback for the team has gone through hard work, studying, practice to make the squad. Being that the last 4 quarterbacks have been coach’s sons, we know these young men had to go above and beyond. A coach who is also a father will not let his son take the easy route, and that in turn has made each and every one of these kids successful not only on the football field, but away from the field as well. Coach Joel Lopez’s son, Jerry, is attending law school in Arizona at
the Summit School of Law. He’s a true testament of an athlete who used his football studying skills to translate into school studying skills. His hard work in understanding details has helped him in his journey through law school. Coach Brian Swain has had two sons at the quarterback position, Brian and Aaron Swain, both were standouts during their time playing for the Alexander Football Program. The younger Brian was the first African-American starting quarterback in Laredo and his younger brother, Aaron, continued the legacy after Brian graduated. After a successful High School sports career at Alexander, Brian took his abilities and went to play in the highest collegiate level at Division 1 school Hampton University. The Swains have been true trailblazers for the city. The youngest Swain, Dante, is a receiver for the Alexander program. This year the starting quarterback is Izekiel Zeke Coss. Young Coss is the son of Coach Coss, an Assistant Coach for the 2015 Alexander Bulldog Varsity team. Zeke is the starting quarterback in only his sophomore year of high school which is a true testament to the hard work that has been done not only on the field, but at home watching game tapes when his father is preparing for the next opponent. The common denominator in the 4 quarterbacks isn’t just that their fathers were a coach on the team. What joins them at the hip is hard work on the practice field, in the classroom, at home and when the bright lights of Friday night came on: they all performed like true VarCity athletes. Written by: Adrian Zapata
Who has been your biggest inspiration growing up? My aunt who is also my coach. What sports do you play? Softball (outfield & pitcher). Track (Hurdles & 1 Mile Relay) What is your favorite subject in school? English
What college do you plan on attending? UTSA What do you want to be when you gro up? I want to open my own volleyball academy. What is your favorite food? Green spaghetti What three places would you want to visit? California, France & Hawaii
Who has been your biggest insiration growing up? My Mother
What is your favorite subject in school? Math
Who is your favorite NFL Athlete? Adrian Peterson & Ladanian Tomlinson
What college do you plan on attending? University of Texas at Austin
Who is your favorite NFL Team? Dallas Cowboys Favorite NCAA Team? Oregon Ducks What other sports do you play? Soccer, Powerlifting, Track & Baseball
What do you want to be when you grow up? Border Patrol or Customs Agent What is your favorite food? Chicken Alfredo
Sylvia Barrera is the strongest person featured in this issue of VarCity. Sylvia is the former LISD Athletic Director and the current Director of Recreation Sports at TAMIU. Her biggest accomplishment isn’t working her way up to those prestigious positions, her biggest test andaccomplishment was battling Breast Cancer and defeating it. Since February of 2007 Ms. Barrera has been in remission. She credits getting through it all by having a huge support system; family, friends, colleagues and survivors alike. The support she received was vital in her victory over Breast Cancer. She describes the community of breast cancer survivors of having a sorority-like bond. Naturally, when someone else reaches out to her for support, she offers her support 100%. Often forgotten in the process of beating cancer is the plan that needs to be put in place. Sylvia says that having a plan to beat it is the first step. She used her coach and manager skills to lay out a plan of attack on beating cancer. She marked the end date (or last day of treatment) on her calendar, she rounded up her support system, and she attacked without fear! Ms. Barrera says a few things you can do for early detection and prevention is to maintain health checkups, find a support system, and continue raising awareness! We wish you many more years of health, Sylvia Barrera! Written by: Adrian Zapata
What do you expect from the average 3rd grader? Most of you would say coloring books, recess, and fairytales, but that’s not the case for Lesley Rodriguez. At the age of three, she became fascinated with golf. She started playing with plastic golf clubs, and soon after, she followed her father’s footsteps and asked for a set of her own. Her supportive parents, Cindy and Raul Rodriguez, began taking her to the golf course at age five where she began training with Coach Rudy Gonzalez and competing at the age of six. At such a young age, she has become a great player, something that not many accomplish at a young age. She is a member of the Laredo Junior Golf Association, where she competes and wins awards for her hard work and dedication. Even when she was in school, she dedicated her time in practicing for tournaments. When she enters the golf course, her style and determination shine through. The first thing you notice is
her bright smile and the shiny, colorful ball makers that adorn her cap. She has so many she never uses the same marker twice during the game. Her style reflects her bright personality in the outfits she wears and the golf bag she carries. Lesley’s style reflects her young, bright personality and her attitude towards the sport. She admires Bubba Watson for being a great player and having the best golf shots using the driver; and just like him, she loves using the driver, her favorite golf club, which makes her achieve better and far-
ther shots. Lesley is not afraid of showing her excitement towards the sport. She participates not only in tournaments but in events with the Laredo Junior Golf Association. With her great golf playing skills, she has heads turning with excitement, wondering who that girl is. Once when practicing, the United South High School golf coach jumped in excitement after seeing Lesley hit the ball. He was mesmerized by seeing Lesley hit the ball like a pro.
now in 3rd grade, is very excited for the future. Not only is her hard work paying off but she is interested in many other things, and would like to later try out for the volleyball or tennis team. At such a young age, Lesley Rodriguez is taking home awards and is becoming a great golf player. Her love for the sport and great skills is making everyone excited for what comes next. We are all happily anticipating the victories and successes of Lesley Rodriguez.
Lesley, a Salinas Elementary student, entering Written by: Jackie Vega
“Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live.” Jim Rohn. My name is Lorena Carmona. I was born and raised in Laredo, Texas. I’ve been living in San Antonio for the past 9 years. In 2013, I graduated from the University of Incarnate Word with a bachelor’s degree in Nutrition and Dietetics. Ever since then, I have been working as a nutritionist at a weight loss clinic that focuses on helping patients reach personal goals to increase overall well-being. My passion for nutrition comes as a result of a personal journey. For many years, I suffered from a gastrointestinal chronic condition and had to constantly be under the supervision of a doctor taking daily medications. Years later, I found a doctor that took the time to educate me about food and how to listen to my body. It completely changed my life. I was fascinated by understanding that food could heal me and wanted to learn more about nutrition and how to help others. As a native Laredoan, I understand the challenges the Hispanic community faces regarding eating habits that lead to chronic illnesses such as obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure. People are overwhelmed with somany food claims/trends and take unnecessary drastic measures putting their health at risk. I find that there is a lack of information which makes the population vulnerable to diet trends. Most people I have met want to eat right and change their eating habits but lack information. They are shocked to realize that eating less can actually lead to weight gain. Mygoalisto educate people who want to live a healthier life by providing simple nutritional tips. I will provide recipe/récipe modifications, label reading, snack ideas and weight loss tips. Understanding our body and how to nurture it is key to our overall well-being, I believe nutrition shouldn’t be so complicated and should be a lifestyle change. People should still be able to enjoy the foods they like in moderation. With proper nutrition we can reverse/prevent disease and increase overall health. I believe that the key to a healthy lifestyle is to find a balance and set realistic goals. For my first column, I will be talking about label reading. Label reading can be overwhelming. It is important to know what you are putting in your body. I will point out a few things to watch for and stay away from when it comes to label reading hopefully making your trip to the grocery store less stressful. Tip: If you can’t pronounce it, don’t buy it! Written by: Lorena Carmona
Oftentimes an underrated sport in the South of Texas, volleyball requires a distinct coordination and dynamic in order for a team to gain a victory. The ladies at Texas A&M International University could not be a better example representing the discipline and resilience necessary to make a team excel. As proud representatives of Laredo and of TAMIU, they agreed to meet with us on an early Friday morning, following the previous night’s victory versus Oklahoma Panhandle State. Head Coach Susie Jangada reflects on the journey and development the team has had thus far. Originally from Indiana, Jangada has had extensive experience with the sport. Having played from a young age on an international level and having previously coached in Texas, Arkansas, Florida, and now in Laredo, she shares with VarCity her vision for the Dustdevil Volleyball Team and what has contributed to the successes the team has encountered thus far. VarCity: Where do you see the team right now? Susie Jangada: I see a lot of improvements since the beginning of the season. We are constantly building our
culture and the program itself. After a rough beginning, the girls and I are very excited and committed to our improvement. We are constantly getting better, constantly working on things. The girls are great at making the adjustments that I ask for in order to strengthen our dynamic as a team. VC: With 5 AM practice every morning, it must require a lot of commitment to the sport from all of you! How does the team stay motivated? SJ: Most definitely! One of the things that I strive for the most is to make sure that they still love the sport. For me, that is a very intricate and fundamental part. If you don’t love what you’re doing, then why are you doing it? VC: Of course. We definitely agree. Can you tell us about the players and the dynamic they have out of the field? SJ: We are a lot like a family here. We are spending so much time together, traveling, and practicing all the time. For me, it’s hard to pick out a favorite, especially when there are fifteen of them! We joke around and they call me mom, so all fifteen of them are very important to me. VC: How does this translates when it comes to game time? SJ: This definitely manifests itself when they’re playing. The way they communicate during games and work together. The team has definitely evolved from the beginning of the season. They’re all excited about making adjustments constantly, so we’re always improving. VC: This is your first year coaching at TAMIU. How is this
team and environment different from your previous experiences? SJ: I think that TAMIU has a lot of special attributes about it. Whether it’s the school, the athletics program, or even our volleyball program itself – there’s a very unique vibe to the community found here. When recruiting players, I oftentimes describe TAMIU as a hidden gem. There’s a very unique atmosphere. It’s very rare to find a place with such a present bilingual community as part of the everyday life, so I always try to encourage the learning of Spanish with our players. It’s great to say that we are an international school because of it. VC: Thank you, Susie! We’ll be sure to catch the schedule for the upcoming game and show support. Written by: Karen Gaytan
Who has been your biggest inspiration growing up? My big brother Who is your favorite NFL player? Adrian Peterson Favorite NFL Team Dallas Cowboys What sports do you play? Track & Field & Football What is your favorite subject in school? Football Class - 3rd Block What do you plan on doing after high school? Going to college to get my degree What do you want to be when you grow up? Sports Medicine Besides sports, what do you like to do in your free time? Lift weights, play madden and midnight club. What is your favorite food? Anything and everything. Just take me to a buffet and I’ll be happy.
Laredo Sports Medicine Clinic is proud to announce our spotlight athlete forSeptember 2015...Ignazio DzNachodz Tellez! Ignazio’s athletic story begins when he was a second grader at Fasken Elementary School. A curious boy ready to tackle the world, Nacho, as all his friends and family know him, would soon discover his passion for the game of football.
causing him to feel extremely light headed. Nacho was immediately rushed to the hospital where they were able to fix his nose. He was then referred to see Dr. John Puig at Laredo Sports Medicine Clinic. Dr. Puig diagnosed him immediately: Nacho had suffered a concussion and would need to be closely monitored for the next three weeks.
Nacho vividly remembers his first encounter with the game of football. He recalls sitting at his desk when Coach Garcia walked in to his classroom and eagerly asked the class if anyone was interested in trying out for the new flag football team. Deciding to give it a try, Nacho ended up making the team. From there on, Nacho and football were inseparable.
Though that would be the first of three total concussions Ignazio would suffer due to football, he persevered to be a strong athlete and leader in his community. After his final season-ending concussion in 2014, Nacho worked diligently to return to the field working closely with Dr. Puig and his staff; he abided by Dr. Puig’s programs and regimens.
Years later, Ignazio would find himself eager to start his high school career at United. Nacho approached his freshman year with a tremendous amount of enthusiasm and excitement. No sooner had he started his freshman year, when he suffered the first of many detours.
During the off-season, Dr. Puig cleared him to work out and practice spring ball—four weeks of practicing with fellow teammates. That was enough to keep him motivated to return to play football during his upcoming senior year.
During a 7 on 7 game, as Nacho threw an interception, he went to tackle the interceptor. Nacho and his opponent clashed head to head, breaking his nose and
Despite being forced off the field during his high school athletic career, Nacho has still made quite an impact during his time as starting quarterback for United High School. Last November, Nacho broke a
city record with 601 passing yards in a game against La-Joya in the bi-district round of the playoffs. Nacho was able to surpass the city and school record that had previously been set by United High School student Alvaro Garcia with 595 in 2006. Nacho has also received various recognitions for his achievements in football such as the prestigious Dario Hinojosa Memorial Award—an award that is given to an athlete who has excelled in sports, exhibited leadership skills, and is a role model for other athletes in our community. He has also been recognized as the All City MVP. Nacho proudly displays both recognitions on patches on his letterman jacket. Nacho has a positive outlook for the start of his senior year. With this season’s preparation beginning in late August, Nacho is well aware of the possibility of suffering yet another injury. If this should occur, Nacho faces the real probability of being out for the season, if not forever. Yet, he is remaining optimistic and continues to elevate his skill. Nacho’s expected graduation date is May of 2016. After graduating, Nacho would like to attend Texas State University or the University of Texas at San Antonio to study Kinesiology. Although he still has an entire school year to weigh his college options, there is one thing he knows for sure: he’d like to continue playing football at the collegiate level. His ultimate goal is to coach football and instill in others the love of the game and impart the leadership skills he’s learned along the way. Nacho has high hopes for his future and is willing to go anywhere life may lead him. Inspired by his favorite quarterback, Peyton Manning, he carries Peyton’s wise advice with him until this day, DzIf you work hard and you play well, all those critics quiet themselves pretty quickly. We’re excited about Nacho’s senior year at United High School. We wish him the best of luck this school year and in all his future aspirations! LSMC congratulates and is proud to recognize Ignazio DzNachodz Tellez as September’s Spotlight Athlete! Written by: Laredo Sports Medicine