By ROY HESS, Staff Writer
Harlingen High is sending two of its top senior soccer athletes to the college ranks to play at the next level.
Serena Escobar of the Lady Cardinals and Jacob Garza of the Cardinals signed college scholarship agreements Friday to play at Ranger Junior College in Ranger, Texas, next school year.
Each has been a four-year member of the varsity, with Escobar starting three years and Garza four.
Cardinals coach Johnny Guillen said Garza is a unique player who performs well all over the field and twice has been voted utility player of the year. Garza, who is mostly playing in the midfield this season, has been a team captain since he was a sophomore.
“Jacob is someone who plays well all over,” Guillen said. “He brings a lot to the team and is a very skilled player. He is a great team leader for us on and off the field.”
In addition to soccer, Garza also has kicked three years for the Cardinals football team.
“I’ve always thought about this (signing) day as being a dream come true,” said Garza, who plans to major in kinesiology in college. “This is the best thing that could happen. I’m just happy to get a chance to play at the next level.
“It’s just a blessing and (the fulfillment of) a family tradition,” Garza added. “I’d like to thank my coaches, my parents and my family. They’ve always been there for me. I’m going to keep pushing myself (to do well) in college. Just like I said before, I’m not done yet.”
Escobar, a center midfielder this season who played defense before, said she was excited and a little surprised about Friday’s signing.
“I didn’t ever think I’d be signing to play in college until a few years ago when I went to some showcase events (and was noticed),” said Escobar, who plans to study nursing in college. “I’m grateful to my coaches and family for pushing me to do well.
“It’s meant a lot to play for the Lady Cardinals,” Escobar added. “We got a new coach several years ago (in Debra Galvan), and it’s brought a new attitude to the team. We’ve seen so much growth and positiveness.”
Galvan said Friday’s signing was special to her because Escobar is the first player who has been with her four years that is going to play in college.
“Serena has a lot of skills and leadership, and she pushes the team,” Galvan said. “This (signing) is a huge event for us, and we’re thrilled about it. We’re happy for her, we’re proud of her and we wish her all the best.”