The El Rancho Five: Ryan Araujo, Javier Carrillo, Adrien Perez, David Ramos, & Jesse Verduzco
(Pico Rivera) – El Rancho celebrated the signing of five football players Thursday to play at the next level. Running Back Ryan Araujo, receiver Javier Carrillo, linebacker David Ramos and linebacker Jesus Verduzco all signed with New Mexico Highlands while defensive lineman Adrien Perez inked with Whittier College
“It’s exciting. This is what can happen when you take care of business in the classroom and on the field. If a college is going to pay for your education you have to take advantage of that opportunity,” said El Rancho head coach Vinne Lopez. “To see these guys that played for me and now going on the the next level is great. I have a coach on my staff who is our college coordinator and with his efforts and the rest of the staff we were able to make some contacts and get their information out to get them this opportunity. We’re committed to that.”
El Rancho finished 4-1 in the Del Rio League last year, losing only to eventual CIF Southeast Champion La Serna. The Dons fell in the first round of the playoffs to Dominguez. The four league wins were the most El Rancho has had in the last 17 years.
“As soon as we lost to Dominguez we were back working at it in the weight room,” Lopez said “We know we’re chasing the big dog in the league in La Serna and we have to find a way to catch them. I feel we’re definitely headed in the right direction. We had a good year last year but we need to get better. That’s what we’re determined to do.”
The Dons officially open spring practice on May 5 and Lopez can’t wait.
“We’re definitely looking forward to another year. We have some fun things we’re going to do this year. One of them is Monday Night Football. Every Monday night we’ll be out under the lights from 6:30-8:30 practicing. Football is hard work so you have to make it fun,” Lopez added.
El Rancho HC Vinnie Lopez talking with Mid Valley Sports’ Tim Peterson.
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