DENNIS SILVA II | STAFF WRITER
Donna High has already clinched a share of the District 32-5A title, but a win over Edcouch-Elsa on Friday awards it to them outright.
For the Redskins, that means everything.
“I can downplay it as much as possible, but the kids want this thing outright,” coach Ramiro Leal said. “They know what’s at stake. They’re excited. Everybody’s excited.”
The Redskins have a share of their first district title since 2007. Since 2000, Donna High has won the district title in 2000, 2001, 2004, 2007 and now 2015. A loss to Edcouch-Elsa and a Mercedes win over Brownsville Porter means the Redskins and Tigers share the title.
“It’s our turn,” Leal said. “Basketball had one last year. Volleyball had one. In 27 years, this can be our fifth one. They don’t just hand these out.”
The Redskins are pretty much the same team as last year’s version, when they finished second in district and 6-4 overall. But good health has been a theme this season, and in that regard it means senior Amonte Bowen is on the field instead of on the sideline like he was for most of 2014. Bowen is a difference-making talent, having amassed 1,644 yards and 20 touchdowns this season.
“Execution is always key, and we’ve had that because of good health, knock on wood,” Leal said. “As the saying goes, it’s not about the X’s and O’s, it’s about the Jimmies and Joes.”
Leal said this year’s team is similar to the one in 2007 that last won the district title. That team lost two of its first four games, but had a group of talented athletes that stayed humble, worked hard and was selfless.
This year’s Redskins lost their first two games — they’re on a seven-game win streak — but the character and talent has kept it in stride.
“The team concept is big,” Leal said. “It’s one thing to have talent, it’s another for that talent to come and play to their potential. It takes talent, dedication, perseverance and sacrifice.”
A NEW ROLE
The past couple of years, Isaac Vela has been Mercedes’ workhorse back. But coming off a leg injury last season, Vela had to work hard to return to the same elusive talent that once made him a force.
Just recently, coach Roger Adame Jr. said he’s seen the vision and cutting return for Vela. And while Vela’s role has changed — he now finds himself in a talented backfield that includes sophomores Zach Gomez and Fabian Ledesma — he still remains a constant of the Tigers’ attack.
“The offense changed up because of the quarterback, but he’s done a tremendous job,” Adame said. “He’s taken the offense on his shoulders. He wants the ball and he’s a great leader and mentor in that huddle. His role here has expanded even if he’s not getting the ball as much.”
Vela has five touchdowns in his last three games. Prior to that, he had four in six, respectively.
“I don’t see the reluctance anymore,” Adame said. “It was evident early on, but not anymore. He still stops on a dime and cuts back. He’s running with a chip on his shoulder.”
Because of the crowdedness in the backfield, Adame has used Vela more as a receiver out of the backfield. He’s caught six passes for 158 yards. And while he may not get as many carries as he used to, Vela is still efficient, averaging 6.3 yards per tote.
Adame also said Vela’s blocking has been vital. Whenever Gomez or Ledesma burst off for a long run, it’s often Vela using his strength and speed to lead the way.
PLAYOFFS
If Donna High loses this week to Edcouch-Elsa and Mercedes (5-1) beats Brownsville Porter, then Donna High and Mercedes share the district title despite the Redskins beating the Tigers earlier this season. That understanding abides by 32-5A regulations.
The four playoff seeds are set in 32-5A. Donna High and Brownsville Porter (4-2) are Division I representatives, with Donna High taking the No. 1 seed. Edcouch-Elsa and Mercedes are 32-5A’s Division II representatives. Mercedes will be the No. 1 seed, with Edcouch-Elsa No. 2.