While some new students encounter trouble and loneliness on the first day of school, junior Seth Ramirez found these difficulties trivial after the troubles he left at his old school.

Ramirez attended Washington Union High for his first two years of high school, but had to come to grips with crime and conflict in the area which made him want to attend a different school.

“I experienced gangs, drugs and violence,” Ramirez said. “I didn’t like what I was seeing and I also really wanted to be back in a Christ-like environment. I am not from a rough neighborhood but the district has kids from rough areas of town.”

Ramirez says the results of the surroundings have personally affected him.

“I’ve had a few friends who have been shot in drive-bys,” Ramirez said. “The area has a history of gang-related problems.”

According to Ramirez, in addition to a less than desireable atmosphere, he said the classroom environment lacks an in-depth student to teacher relationship and is not an ideal learning environment for him.

“In my chemistry class last year we had over 50 kids and I didn’t talk to the teacher all year,” Ramirez said. “I’m pretty sure if I had gone up to him he wouldn’t have even known my name. Having a teacher you can talk to might be the thing you need to understand the lesson and do well on the test. I really like having the luxury of smaller student to teacher ratios at FC.”

Ramirez has played football, his favorite sport, since fourth grade. He came into high school excited for the sport, but he found it the complete opposite of what he expected. As a starter on the Eagles’ varsity team, he enjoys every minute.

“At Washington Union I sat on the bench my whole freshman year and practice was not fun,” Ramirez said. “Here, I like practicing because the coaches are very encouraging and are always lifting you up. Also, the team has a united mentality so no one ever feels left out and it makes going to practice each day much easier.”

First year defensive coordinator Ervin Hernandez says Ramirez is a classy individual with a tremendous knowledge of the game.

“Seth is a great guy and is always on the ball,” Hernandez said. “Whatever he does, he has a smile on his face. Not only does he have a great attitude, his mental game is incredible and he always knows what to do.”

According to Hernandez, Ramirez is a great asset to the team and he has high hopes for him to become a wiser, more physical and more influential player in the future.

“I see him catching more balls as a receiver and on defense making some more tackles and sacks,” Hernandez said. “Right now, as a junior, he’s learning from our seniors how to be a leader and next year I believe he will be able to step into that role.”

As a first-time receiver on the team, Ramirez has tallied five receptions and scored two touchdowns in FC’s first four games, Aug. 28-Oct. 2. Senior teammates Tim Miller and Landon Martens encourage Ramirez to become a stronger and more efficient player and also serve as role models.

“I really enjoy playing wide receiver because I like to catch the ball and try and gain some extra yards after the catch,” Ramirez said. “Tim and Landon make great plays and when I see them do that, it makes me want to contribute and work harder to be like them and keep up with them.”

To Martens, Ramirez is a great all-around player who has earned his trust and respect.

“Seth has a great ability to stalk block and when he’s doing this you know that you will get some extra yards,” Martens said. “I expect him to be a leader on and off the field, and his characteristics and work habits will allow him to do this and even more as the season progresses.”

Although playing a sport he calls “very strenuous,” Ramirez chooses to persevere and says in the end the hard work pays off.

“When you are out there you think to yourself ‘it’s too hot, I don’t want to do hitting drills, all we do is condition’,” Ramirez said. “But playing Friday night is so much fun, with the lights and the fans and especially when you win it makes all your hard work worthwhile.”

As a direct result of participating in Eagle football this season, Ramirez says he has learned to play for God.

“When you play for God and do your best for him it makes every aspect of the game better,” Ramirez said. “When you glorify him you can’t lose.”

Ramirez’ parents, Orlando and Gracie, are grateful their son strives to follow Christ and for his decision to come to FC.

“We are truly blessed to have this opportunity to have Seth at FC,” Orlando said. “His mom and I could not be prouder to have a son who loves his God, family and teammates.”

Ramirez says he cherishes each moment with his family at the games.

“My parents are very supportive of my team and I,” Ramirez said. “They are at every game and are proud of me whether I do good or not. I just love to have them in the stands cheering me on.”

Ever since fourth grade at least one of Ramirez’s parents have attended his games whether football, basketball or tennis.

“When we see him play, we know that he will give his best for the team,” Orlando said. “And when the game is all said and done, there is no greater reward then to see him look towards the stands at us, still smiling and full of life.”

The Eagles will next open West Sequoia League and host Tranquillity, at Clark Intermediate in Clovis, Oct. 9.

For more information about the football team, check out the Football sport shorts, 2009.