KEVIN NARRO | Staff Writer
LYFORD — Lyford’s Senior quarterback Chase Hinojosa secured his college future by signing his name on the dotted line Wednesday afternoon at the Lyford Library. Hinojosa will suit up and play football at Southwestern University in Georgetown, Texas.
“ Right now I’m just humbled and blessed,” Hinojosa said. “The recruiting process was long, I wasn’t sure if anything was going to come my way, but I persevered and finally found a home at Southwestern. I realized it was the place to be when the coaches kept in contact with me, I felt like they wanted me to be a part of the family.”
Hinojosa was a two-year starter under center for the Lyford Bulldogs and was named offensive player of the year in both his junior and senior season.
“ Chase has a great head on his shoulders, he comes from a very good family and has always done well in the classroom,” said Lyford head coach Israel Gonzalez. “We are excited to see what he does at the next level. My advice to him would be to continue to compete and to learn as much as you can.”
Hinojosa was a part of two district and bi-district titles his final two seasons. This year, Lyford cruised to a perfect 5-0 district record and won 16-3A championship outright.
Under center, Hinojosa threw for 1,462 yards, 10 touchdowns and finished with 178 yards rushing while finding the end zone twice.
“ I plan on playing quarterback and trying out the punting position. I did some punting here, so I’m going to give that a shot,” Hinojosa said.
Last month, Rio Hondo’s offensive linemen Ty Rhyner also signed at Southwestern University. Hinojosa is excited to join Rhyner in Georgetown.
“ I’ve talked to him a few times, he told me he visited campus and that it was beautiful,” Hinojosa said. “I’m excited to get to work with him.”