Garza, Rodriguez earn Coach of the Week honors

By Manuel Azocar III - Sports Writer/Managing Editor | October 13, 2022

HIGH SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL

Coach Esteban Rodriguez

Coach Sonny Garza

Cotulla coaches Jesus “Sonny” Garza and Esteban Rodriguez were named Coaches of the Week by the Hispanic Texas High School Football Coaches Association following the Cowboys’ victory over Robstown on September 23.

“It was truly an honor to receive the accolade,” Coach Rodriguez said. “I have enjoyed being a part of this great association, representing the Hispanic community to the best of my ability.

“This award wouldn’t be possible without our great group of kids who work hard and continue to execute at a high level. Also, we have a great coaching staff that pushes our kids to be the best student/athlete they can be.”

Rodriguez made the switch in the offseason from coaching the defensive line to coaching the offense line.

“I couldn’t have asked for a better group,” the coach said. “With the great leadership of seniors Kaleb Linares, Robert Ayala and junior Robert Sanchez, my sophomore linemen Gerardo Gonzalez and Miguel Hernandez have really stepped up and accepted the challenge of what it takes to compete at a high level on Friday nights.”

Garza, the Cowboys’ offensive coordinator, credited his fellow coaches and players for the honor.

“I was honored to receive such an accolade, but I must give credit where it is truly due,” he said. “Our offensive coaching staff, which includes Coach Rodriguez, Coach Gonzalez, and Coach Ramos have done a tremendous job of preparing our boys on a weekly basis.

“Furthermore, the boys’ execution and effort on the offensive side of the ball deserve the utmost credit. Our defense has stifled opponents’ offenses, which has allowed us extra possessions which we, in turn, used to put up some respectable offensive numbers.”

Garza said Cotulla’s opponents and players’ ability and toughness in playing on both sides of the ball has been key to the team’s success.

“The amount of heart that our boys play with on Friday is immeasurable and I am truly proud to call myself their coach.’

Cotulla earned a 61-35 win over the Cotton Pickers and the team amassed a season-high 400 yards rushing. The 61 points were also a season-high for the team which enters its district slate this week.

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