The end of a high school playing career is filled with many emotions. Some players look for that one opportunity to get out on to the field one last time. In El Paso, several of the city’s best will have one more opportunity to put on the pads as a high school football player in the 25th Greater El Paso Football Showcase.
“Being picked is an amazing feeling,” said Parkland defensive end Joshua Wells, “I love this city so much and I love to represent it in any way that I can and this is a big opportunity to do that.”
“It’s a real blessing to be picked,” said Eastlake running back Adrian Chavez, “It just goes to show that hard work pays off.”
To be selected for the game, students must be nominated by their coaches and have taken or be registered to take the ACT or SAT by December 1. Once they are nominated, they are selected by a committee of former coaches and players.
The teams are divided into East and West based on El Paso’s population. The line has shifted in recent years due to the growth of El Paso’s east side. As a result, you have Eastwood representing the west team. Wells will represent the West team in the game.
In summary, the game is an opportunity for El Paso athletes to get looked at by colleges for the next level. For former players, playing in the game is one of the highlights of their senior year
“I remember when I graduated from Irvin in 1997, the NCAA only allowed players to play in two all-star games,” said Ed Stansbury, “I played in the All-American Bowl in Florida and in this game. It’s something that you’ll never forget.” Stansbury went on to play at fullback for UCLA and is now on the Greater El Paso Football Showcase selection committee.
For several athletes, it’s a chance to represent their school one more time. For Bowie receiver and cornerback Patrick Moran, making the game represents the accomplishment of a signature goal.
“Being selected to the all-star game has been a goal since my freshman year and to achieve that and represent Bowie and the Bowie community, it means a lot,” Moran said following the introductory press conference.
Bowie’s regular season ended in the Sun Bowl on November 3rd with a 52-6 win over rival Jefferson. The win gave Bowie a share of their first district title in 45 years. Moran and the other players selected are all looking forward to making some more memories in the Sun Bowl.
The rosters for the East and West teams were announced last week. The all-star festivities culminate with a scouting combine on December 16 at the SAC followed by the game on December 17 at the Sun Bowl.
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