MidValleySports.Com

By George Hernandez

[West Covina] – I sat down with one of the top returning players in the area, South Hills’ running back Jacob Gallegos. Gallegos spent his first three season at San Dimas under head coach Mark Holman running his ground and pound offense. Last season Gallegos had 1,668 yards rushing 16-touchdowns. He also led the team in receiving with 351-yards and four scores. 

Q: What’s up kid, how’s it going?

A: Hi Sir. Everything’s been going great right now. I appreciate you for having me on this Q and A. I’ve seen your work around and it means a lot to me to be a part of it. Lately  I’ve been focused on getting better every day from the classroom, the weight room, and on the field. I’m really excited for my final chapter with South Hills and ready to compete.

Q: First question. How did you end up at South Hills after being at San Dimas your first three years?

A: My first three years of high school Coach Holman at San Dimas shaped me into the person and athlete I am today and I’ll forever be thankful for that. My family moved to the Covina area and after talking with Coach Calderon and Coach Rodriguez I knew South Hills was the perfect fit for me.

Q: What’s the biggest difference so far between your San Dimas team and South Hills so far?

A: I would say the biggest difference I’ve noticed so far is the level of competition and intensity every single day. At South Hills there’s a strong culture of accountability and everyone pushes each other to improve. Being in that kind of environment has already helped me grow mentally and physically.

Q: Who do you model your game after?

A: I like to think I have my own unique style but if I had to compare it I would say Jeremiah Love and Christian McCaffrey. By the way Love runs with the same physicality and speed that’s used to break away from defenders for long runs but I also resemble McCaffrey’s versatility to catch the ball, spread the defense and dominate all around the field.

Q: How would your teammates and coaches describe you?

A: I would hope they would describe me as a hardworking and passionate person. I always take pride in my work ethic.

Q: What is your goal for the team and you personally this upcoming football season?

A: It’s plain and simple, the goal is to WIN!!!!

Q: What is the biggest lesson you have learned from sports so far? 

A: Sports has taught me to stay humble and never stop pushing even when things get hard.

Q: How do you handle the pressure of playing in high-stakes games?

A: I handle big games by trusting my coaches, staying composed, and believing in my ability to make things happen in stressful situations.

Q: You’re still a freshman but what are your plans after high school when it comes to sports?

A: My plan after high school is to play college football at the highest level possible while getting my education. I love this game.

Q: Anything else you would like to say or want us to know?

A: I want to thank my family for always believing in me and supporting my dreams every step of the way. I also want to thank Coach Holman for always being there for me and helping guide me throughout this football journey. And to South Hills I’d like to thank Principal Abernathy, Coach Calderon, and Coach Rodriguez for believing in me and welcoming me into the PACK. Let’s go Huskies!