Matthew “Moose” Lopez
Sports Editor
Warhorse football has been off to a hot start this season. New head coach, new offensive system and new play callers have rejuvenated this Devine squad. However, that’s not the only new addition to the team. A new tradition has taken shape in honor of the late great coach Jacob Sanchez.
Sanchez was just 35 years old when he passed on January 5, 2023. He was a beloved member the community, father, husband, brother, son, teacher and coach.. He was also a Warhorse himself, wearing number 75 for varsity. He taught 6th and 8th grade science and coached football, basketball, and track in field for DMS, so many of his former students/athletes are still playing in Devine athletics today.
Brigid Howard, part-time sub and photographer for Devine ISD, took it upon herself to commemorate Sanchez with the Legacy Award. An honor bestowed upon a different Warhorse every week, not just for their play on the field, but for being the kind of teammate and the kind of young man people remember.
This award is meant to exemplify Sanchez’s values and by the end of the season the goal is to have the boys understand that earning it speaks to their caliber of character not just their success as an athlete.
“Maybe he helps a teammate up. Maybe he encourages someone after a bad play. Maybe he keeps fighting when the game gets tough,” Howard explained. “It doesn’t have to be the kid who scores the touchdown or gets his name called.”
This year’s crop of Horses consists of the last two teams Sanchez had coached. Howard’s son, varsity center Canton Urrabazo, was coached by Sanchez in middle school. He meant a lot to the senior linemen, which speaks to how much of a lasting impression Sanchez’s teachings made on his students and players.
“Coach Sanchez was so much more than a football coach,” Howard said. “He was known for supporting the underdog, making everyone feel welcome, and believing in kids who sometimes just needed someone to believe in them.”
Every game Howard selects a mom in the crowd to watch closely for the player that shows extraordinary effort, valor, heart and character on the field. The only rule being, she cannot select her own son.
After the game, the player is presented with a gold chain with a #75 jersey, Sanchez’s number in high school, to highlight the moments of sincerity and motivation he displayed throughout the game.
Since his passing, the kids have adopted a saying to honor their late mentor. A saying emboldens what it means to live up to the values that Sanchez set. To play with effort, lead with courage and lift up others. To live like coach Sanchez.
Jacob is #75 in the middle.