Alex Rodriguez has no doubt.
In fact, for the La Joya High senior discus/shotput thrower, that’s been a mantra that he has taken to heart this novel coronavirus shortened season.
With all spring sports canceled, the individual sports — track and golf at least — may have the best chance to complete their seasons. Whether or not that hope becomes a reality, Rodriguez is leaving no doubt behind as he continues to practice wherever he can, albeit by himself. His goals are simple: make it to state in the discus event and win state in the shot put.
“That’s been his rallying point: ‘No doubt,’” said Joe Garza, one of two throwing coaches for the La Joya High track and field teams, along with Juan Guajardo. “He knows he can’t take anything for granted. We are lucky to have two throwing coaches, and we sat and talked with him that he has to leave no doubt this year.
“Don’t leave it up to anything — it’s just you against the ring. It’s you against yourself and whatever happens, happens.”
Rodriguez is ranked No. 4 in the state, according to tx.milesplit.com. His personal record of 60 feet, 7 1/2 inches came at the Bear Relays on Feb. 14 at PSJA High. He is one of just five throwers who have eclipsed that magical 60-foot mark. He surpassed that plateau again in his post recent competition at the Steve Stark Relays at Sharyland High. He threw 60-6 during the second day of competition to win that event. He has won all five meets he’s competed in this season.
“He’s always been a strong kid,” La Joya track head coach Joe Magallan said. “At times, it may look like he’s lifting heavy, but he’s just strong. During football season, we ease off the weights some. He’s also very specific with footwork, and being an offensive lineman helps him maintain that. He’s quick — really quick — on his feet.
“As an individual he’s a great kid. He stays out of trouble — he has his head on his shoulders. He has non-negotiables too, certain things that are not negotiable — things he would not even get close to that would get him in trouble. His mom is his biggest motivation. You absolutely want one of those (like him) at home.”
Rodriguez said that his season was off to a great start until the virus came around. Still, he said he’s moving forward with his eyes on a state championship.
“I’m still training and still putting in the time I need,” said Rodriguez, who is also 28th in the state in the discus with a throw of 162-2. “Hopefully it will pay off at the end of the season, if we have one still. I’m working a lot more on my technique right now by myself. I remember what coach told me and I’m working hard by myself and spending time working.”
Rodriguez has bettered his PR every year. His freshman year, he started throwing about 38 feet but set him personal best at 49-1 1/2 feet. As a sophomore he upped that to 58-5 3/4 feet. Those first two PRs each game in the Region 4-6A meet. He hit the 60 mark as a sophomore at the Mission Eagles Invitational.
He’s focusing on breaking his current PR. He hopes that happens especially at state, no matter what his PR is by then.
“Back then (as a freshman) I competed for fun and just showed up for practice once a day,” he said. “It has turned into three to four practices throughout the day, working on one thing sometimes that may result in just giving me a couple of inches. You never know when it will come and help you out. It can make a huge difference.”
“Every time I go to practice, I go in believing whatever we train and whatever drills we do that they are the right move to get further distances and become a state champion.”
Rodriguez said he believes that a throw of 65 or 66 feet will win the state title. Katy Taylor High School junior Bryce Foster holds the farthest throw this season at 61-7 3/4.
“My biggest challenge is to never lose hope that the season will come back,” Rodriguez said. “Whether I’m working with my coaches or by myself I need to remember never to take anything for granted.
“I have to prepare myself when I’m in a meet not to worry about anyone else, just do what I’m capable of and have no doubt.”