It is stressed in St. Paul High School football that no one
player will make or break the program. That while the gain or loss of an
individual might be significant in some respects, it will never be
reason for panic or alibi.
Two of the Swordsmen’s fine multi-sport athletes have decided to forgo
playing football this season in favor of concentrating on baseball. Both
played key roles in St. Paul’s march to the CIF-SS, Division V
championship this spring, Encinas as a pitcher/outfielder and Chico at
shortstop and leadoff batter, and both might have figured prominently in
coach Pete Gonzalez’s plans this fall.
“Both young men were up front about it,” Gonzalez said. “They came to us
and explained their feelings. It was their decision.”
Encinas’ reason was basic.
“I’ve known since I was 10 years old baseball was my sport,” said the
6-foot-3, 200-pound sophomore, although he might get a bit of an
argument from those who have watched him on the football field, both as
a quarterback his freshman season at Santa Fe and as a wide receiver on
St. Paul’s CIF-SS, Western Division championship team this past season.
“I know I’m going to play baseball as a career and I just feel it’s
time to start focusing on that.”
Encinas said “a lot of people,” including professional scouts, had been
telling him he should concentrate on baseball.
“It’s time, and I’m sure I’ll miss (football),” he said. “I really
love the game, but I think this (decision) is best for me.”
Chico is a talented athlete who played defensive back for the junior
varsity last fall. At least one observer close to the varsity program
said the 5-foot-11, 155-pound sophomore could have challenged for a
starting berth on the team this fall.
“No football,” Chico said. “I kinda want some time off to concentrate
more on what I want and need to do at home.”
Chico’s mother passed away last year, and he feels a
responsibility to help take care of his 12-year-old sister (Ashley).
“I also want to do really good in school. My grades are good, I just
want them to be better,” he said, citing their importance in obtaining a
scholarship for college.