Student's Flag Football Success Paves the Way to Coaching Dreams
Student of the Week: Yahir Rodriguez
I pick up a lot from the other players; they've been doing flag football for years. They teach me so much, and it'll really come in handy when I become a coach. I'll pass on the skills I'm learning now. I’m getting ready for my coaching future.
At 19, Yahir Rodriguez is working toward an associate degree, with a focus on kinesiology at South Texas College. His ambition is to become a middle school football coach, blending a passion for sports and academia on a unique educational path.
"Ever since I was a kid, football has been my game. One day, while wandering around campus, I spotted a flyer for flag football, and my curiosity got the better of me. I decided to learn more about the program, and that's how I joined the Flag Football team here at South Texas College,” he said.
Rodriguez, fueling his passion for football, stands side by side with seasoned players on the STC flag football team. Recently, their hard work paid off with a triumphant win at the National Intramural Sports Association (NIRSA) Regional Flag Football tournament at Texas A&M University, clinching the regional title.
"I pick up a lot from the other players; they've been doing flag football for years. They teach me so much, and it'll really come in handy when I become a coach,” said Rodriguez. “I'll pass on the skills I'm learning now. I’m getting ready for my coaching future."
Playing flag football has become Rodriguez's secret weapon for success in school. The team's rule is you've got to pass all your classes to hit the field, and that has kept him on the straight path to success. The love for the sport has transformed Rodriguez into a dedicated student, proving that passion on the field can translate into excellence in the classroom.
“It keeps me motivated to have great teammates and mentors who also help along the way if I have questions on anything. I know I can always ask them,” he said.
As the first to go to college in his family, Rodriguez has faced some hurdles transitioning from high school, but STC has been a huge help in his journey.
“STC made registering easy, and the guidance I have received has been a huge help as I work towards my dream of becoming a football coach,” said Rodriguez.