POLO, AARON GONZALES AND HEAD COACH LEAL proudly pose for the photograph. NFL offensive lineman Mike Munchek of the Houston Oilers once said, “I love everything about football, even the things that I hate I still love.” This probably describes Senior OL Aaron Gonzales, one of the Raymondville Bearkats. Aaron is playing offensive line this year for Coach Alex Leal. Aaron is the son of proud parents, Polo and Liza Gonzales.

Aaron’s dad Polo, a retired A.E.P worker, was one of the first OL to play during Coach Leal’s first job as head coach in Raymondville. Polo played in the early 70’s. Now, in perhaps Coach Alex Leal’s final season, Aaron is lucky enough to play for Coach Leal and his spread offense. Father and son, Bloodlines, Polo and Aaron both agree that they have played for one of the finest offensive minds in South Texas. It has been roughly 38 years since father played for Coach Leal. I asked Polo to comment on playing for the legendary Alex Leal.

Polo said “Coach Leal made playing football fun. He had a work and practice ethics second to none. I incorporated coach Leal’s philosophy and beliefs to my working habits and I have been successful in life.”

Polo adds, “My son Aaron now a senior, will have the honor of playing for Coach Leal in most likely his last year. Thus it brings me great pleasure or should I say pride to say that I played for a legend. Now my son will also play for the same legend his senior year.”

Aaron is quick with a good frame to play offensive lineman. He has an excellent feel for pass protection. In my opinion, Aaron has ideal size and athleticism that line coaches look for in high school football. From what I have seen these past years, Aaron does a good job finishing blocks and because of his fine speed, he can be very effective down field and on screens.

Coach Leal and Coach Joe Gonzales both expect a lot from Aaron “The Big Jitter” Gonzales. This year, “The Big Jitter” and center Carlos Rodriguez will be opening up gaping holes for everybody’s favorite RB Sr. all-world, B.J. Flores #27.

Coach Leal told me, “It has been a great pleasure to have both Gonzales’ play for me. They are one of the finer families I have known in Raymondville. Both have been excellent workers and it has shown.” Assistant offensive line coach and offensive coordinator Joe Gonzales adds “Aaron brings a lot to the table. He is a quick learner and is quick to rectify the mistakes. Aaron is very smart and he is willing to learn and lead. Furthermore, Aaron makes quick adjustments and wants to do his best. In my opinion, Aaron is going to play

Gonzales

a major role this year in whatever success the Kats have on offense. What’s more, Aaron, as a senior, is a great example for the rest of the team.”

My wife, Mary Cantu, Pittman Elementary teacher, taught Aaron in the 4th grade. Mrs. Cantu says, “In the classroom, Aaron was very respectful and polite. He saw all the teachers as role models, Aaron was also super smart. Outside, he always participated in sports and was very active. “Thus his new nickname, THE BIG JITTER.”

Snap, crackle and pop. Not the cereal, is what you hear on the interior line when Aaron plays. Aaron enjoys blocking and he knows that how he performs, will likely decide how the game will evolve. “It all starts in the trenches,” says Aaron.

Aaron adds, “Coach Leal has been a great coach. I know I have learned a lot from him in the past four years. It was great to know that my dad was one of the first players to play for him. Coach Leal says put your heart in everything and good things will come. This summer I put many hours in the weight room. We want to reward Coach with a great season. If Coach Leal retires, us seniors will take the winning tradition with us and never give up.”

I know that this year “THE BIG JITTER” is going to bring much effort and desire to the table. Come watch the Kats do battle for Coach Alex Leal these Friday nights. BACK THE KATS!