Playing sports while keeping up with school can be tough, but senior Gabriel Estrada says it is all about staying focused and disciplined. Gabriel Estrada plays quarterback for the football team and shortstop for baseball, so he knows what it is like to manage a busy schedule. 

     “Balancing school and sports isn’t as hard as you might think it is,” Estrada said. “It’s also not easy. As long as you stay on top of it and stay in touch with your teachers, it’s manageable.”

     He explained that keeping a routine and making sure homework gets done on time helps him balance both responsibilities effectively.

     Estrada first wanted to play football when he was younger because it looked exciting. “I thought it looked cool and I always thought it was fun,” he explained. That excitement pushed him to keep working hard, even on the tough days, and to continue finding joy in the game he loves.

     Now his motivation comes from the people he plays with. “My motivation to keep playing is definitely going out there with my brothers every Friday night and knowing that I don’t get those years back with them.” He shared that the friendships and trust he built on the field are now what inspire him the most every single day.

     For Estrada, being on the field is about more than just the competition, it is about memories and friendships that will last him a lifetime, and enjoying the time he has left on the field with his teammates.