DENNIS SILVA II | STAFF WRITER
SAN JUAN — PSJA High hopes to sustain the same identity it’s had during the two seasons so far under Steve Marroquin. That could be a challenge this year.
The Bears return just one starter on a defense that has carried the program under Marroquin, including last season’s playoff run.
“We have a saying here that we’re not going to rebuild, we’re going to reload,” Marroquin said. “That’s exactly what we’re trying to do. The kids are pumped up and ready to go. I like their energy and passion.”
The biggest hole is replacing All-Valley middle linebacker Christian Sanchez. Sergio Mendez, whose leadership Marroquin praises, will step in, but he started only three games last season. The Bears hope Mendez and some other potential diamonds in the rough can replace the impact Sanchez had upon opposing offenses.
One of those up-and-comers is senior defensive end Brandon Rios, who had four sacks in the three games he started last season.
“We have a challenge in front of us,” Rios said. “The team from last year had good players and this defense led us to the playoffs. It’s time for us other guys to step up.”
PSJA High was District 32-5A’s top defense, via points and yards against, by far last season. And with the offense further behind the defense in camp so far, it’s essential the Bears find a way to stop people if they’re going to play into mid-November.
The good news is the inexperienced players given more responsibility are showing the right attitude.
“These young guys have heart,” senior defensive end Carlos Martinez said. “Since day one this year, we’ve worked harder. I know we lost a lot of people, but it doesn’t mean we can’t win.
“It’s about making sure we’re a team. We have a lot of young pieces and we just want to make sure we’re working hard. It’s about making sure we have a positive attitude.”
MATURED UNDER CENTER
After being part of a three-man rotation at quarterback last season, senior Andrew Castañeda is set to be the man this season.
“Andrew’s the guy right now,” Marroquin said. “His play will dictate that. He learned a lot from last year and he’s gone through ups and downs. But I really like the place he’s in right now.
“I’m cautiously optimistic, but I feel good about what he can do this year.”
In nine games last season, Castañeda completed just 42 percent of his passes and had nine interceptions to three touchdowns. But he has looked like a different player during camp.
“He’s more motivated and dedicated in what he’s doing,” senior offensive lineman Oscar Sanchez said. “He’s doing a great job and he’s stepping up.”
Marroquin said Castañeda’s leadership and ability to manage the game have improved considerably. At his best, the 6-foot-1 Castañeda gives the Bears’ offense a vertical game because of his strong arm.
“It’s a lot easier for me this year,” Castañeda said. “I thought I matured last year, but I really grew up from last year. I didn’t know anything then, but I’m a lot smarter, better now.
“I’m ready to take this team as far as it needs to go.”
ONES TO WATCH
While inexperienced and young, the Bears do boast promise.
Marroquin raved about the play of senior athlete Alex Mancha, a three-year letterman who will play on both sides of the ball and averaged 13.9 yards per catch last season.
Marroquin also likes sophomore speedbug Joachin Almaguer and senior running back Marc Castillo. The backfield pair, affectionately called “Thunder and Lightning” by Marroquin, are strong complements to each other; Almaguer with his speed and energy and Castillo with his power and sturdiness.
STRONG NUMBERS
In his third year as head coach, Marroquin is excited about the direction of the program.
This year, Marroquin said there are 95 kids on the varsity and junior varsity teams, and 50 kids on the freshman team. They’re the most Marroquin has had so far.
“Our numbers are up, the program is up and the kids believe in the things that we’re doing,” Marroquin said. “We’re just getting after it.”
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PSJA HIGH’S PROGNOSIS
To make the playoffs for a second straight year, the Bears will need a big impact from their defense. But that could be a chore with just one returning starter from last season.
Projected 2015 Record: 4-6
TENURE
Coach: Steve Marroquin
Year at school: Third
Record at PSJA High: 12-9
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