Coach Tom Gonzalez singled out Wide Receiver Albert Guevara who had five catches for 70 yards to go along with a touchdown saving tackle on an interception. Coach Eric Villaseñor said the following about Maverick Running Back Fernando Zapata, "He's a total team player that has waited his turn. He is not only a great runner, but also a good blocker. I'm very proud of what he has accomplished to this point in the season."
First up is Winn's Fernando Zapata:
Who do you consider to be your biggest influences?
The biggest influence in my life happens to be my parents. My coaches have become great motivators throughout the season as well. They train us hard and teach us to be good players and most importantly, good people. Professionally, Marshawn Lynch because of how he runs and how he has overcome obstacles to get to where he is. He doesn't care too much for money, he helps people who need it.
What are your goals this season?
The most important goal this season is to reach the playoffs. Hopefully I can make All-District. For now, it is important to work hard and get better as a player.
Who's your favorite NFL team?
My favorite team are The Green Bay Packers.
College team?
Ohio State.
What's your favorite play and why?
My favorite play is Wham, the reason being is because despite it being a hard play to run since it's run inside, it's a fun play to run and it gets the job done almost every single time we run it. The line does an amazing job up front which allows me to break free and get to the second and third levels of the defense.
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan on going to college and getting a degree. Hopefully after college, I can get a good job to help my parents.
Major?
Engineering. I would love to be an underwater welder one day.
What does it feel like to come out of the tunnel? What do you feel when you hear the fight song?
I feel motivated to play, I feel great, ready to come and play. I can't hear anything, I am totally focused. I see all the fans cheering for us, I feel the hype and I say to myself all the time that I'm ready to represent my school. When I hear the fight song it motivates me because they only play it when we do something good like score a touchdown or get a first down. I'm always happy to have our beautiful band playing it.
Finally, give me some advice to a seventh grader playing football for the first time.
Work hard, play hard and never give up. You never know when it will be your time to shine.
Next up is Eagle Pass' Albert Guevara:
Who do you consider to be your biggest influences? My grandpa Nick Gonzalez. I've always looked up to him. He's always working. He basically is a great role model. Professionally, Dez Bryant. He doesn't shy away.
What are your goals this season?
I'm just trying to do the best I can for my team.
Who's your favorite NFL team?
The Dallas Cowboys.
College team?
UT.
What's your favorite play and why?
Zipper. I can count on Jose Riojas or Norby Zavala to block for me.
What are your plans after Graduation?
I'd like to go to college and play at the next level.
Major?
Criminal Justice.
What does it feel like to come out of the tunnel? What do you feel when you hear the fight song?
It feels good. When I hear the fight song, I feel energized and pumped!
Finally, give me some advice to a seventh grader playing football for the first time.
Not to give up. I thought I was pretty good, but my coaches thought different. It took me until my senior year to make varsity and now look at me!