On Fri., March 11, coaches, athletes, students, staff, trustees, counselors and alumni came together at the Pacific Palms Resort to honor not just the soccer and football teams for winning their back to back championship, but to honor everyone else that helped them along the way.
Coach Evans Roderick, academic counselor said, “This is not a banquet this is a celebration.” He added, “This celebration isn’t just about the teams its also about the counselors, trustees, staff and coaches.”
Dr. John S. Nixon, President and CEO of Mt. SAC said, “I am very proud of our coaching staff.” He added, “I am very proud to be a part of the city of Walnut. Leadership and support are what make Mt. SAC a champion college and how it has championship teams.”
Tony Cartagena, mayor of Walnut was also at this celebration.
“Both teams have accomplished a lot in the area of sports,” Cartagena said as he gave congratulations to both teams.
Dean of Physical Education and Athletic Director Joseph Jennum said, “ Coaches are there to help and support their teams, they make sure their athletes succeed not just on the field, but in the classroom and in the community as well.”
The men’s soccer and football coaches both got standing ovations from the crowd.
Juan Sanchez, head coach of the Mt. SAC men’s soccer team showed clips from the past season.
“Without the coaching staff there would be no journey,” Sanchez said. “Team Unity is the key to success.”
Sanchez said he was very proud of the 25 guys that made the commitment and hard work not just on the field, but also in the classrooms. He said that his coaches and team are a tight family.
Football head coach Robert Jastrab cried as he thanked his family, staff and team for supporting him.
“This journey was amazing,” Jastrab said. “I thank God for giving me the opportunity to be at Mt. SAC.”
Alumni such as Don Warren, Antonio Pierce and Leonard Russell gathered at this celebration as well.
Don Warren, who played 14 seasons with the Washington Redskins and won three Super Bowls said, “Mt SAC was a perfect opportunity and if it was not for Mt. SAC I would not be here today.”
Antonio Pierce played for the Washington Redskins and the New York Giants and also won a Super Bowl with the Giants.
“Mt. SAC gives kids an opportunity,” Pierce said. “Mt. SAC is where my heart is.”
He said he wears both his State Championship ring that he won with Mt. SAC and his Super Bowl ring to show his pride for Mt. SAC and the NFL.
Alumnus Leonard Russell played six seasons with the New England Patriots, the Denver Broncos, the St. Louis Rams, and the San Diego Chargers. Russell appreciates everything that Mt. Sac has done for him. Mt. SAC showed him integrity and discipline. Russell said, “ The coaches do it for the love and I appreciate the love.”
All the alumni thanked Mt. SAC and there coaches because without them they would not be where they are today.
Reception host John H. Semcken, III vice president of Majestic Realty, said, “ It is an honor to host for Mount San Antonio College.”
The night ended with closing remarks from Evans Roderick and the entire room yelling “We Are Mt. SAC!”
Sonia Puente
Staff Writer
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Regarding the Girls Basketball Team game against Cerritos College this last Sunday.
I am a MT SAC student who is really ashamed of how they played VS. Cerritos College. The unsportsmanship conduct and wanting to fight their players and playing dirty was UNACCEPTABLE!! They embarrassed themselves and myself because I was taught to play fair, play hard, and win or lose BE GOOD SPORTS!
I pray you learn something about GREAT SPORTSMANSHIP from Cerritos Girls Basketball and so you know I have a BEAUTIFUL, SMART, PITCHER OF THE YEAR at Cerritos College Jessica Lozano who plays hard, loves the game, and knows what Great Sportsmanship is all about!
An Ashamed fellow Student,
Elizabeth at Mt Sac Night Class Student & Lady