Shamrock star Dezmend Esquivel signs letter of intent to Carroll University

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - It was an exciting day on Saturday night in Yuma for one local football star who decided to put pen to paper and extend his playing career.

With a room of support behind him, Yuma Catholic's own Dezmend Esquivel signed his letter of intent to play for Carroll University in Waukesha, Wisconsin in the fall.

The linebacker was the 2020 Defensive Player of the Year and has been a two-time All-State selection for the Shamrocks, while also reaching the state semi-finals in each of the last two years.

Esquivel was joined by a room full of family, friends and teammates who showed support as he signed his name on the bottom line.

After receiving 10 total offers to play at the next level, Saturday night marked the beginning of a dream he's had of playing college football for the next four years. All while giving credit and remembering his days at Yuma Catholic.

"Ever since I got my first offer last year, it's something i've always wanted to do. It's crazy it's finally coming true," said Esquivel. "I loved the crowd. I always loved the coaching there. I'll really feel at home when I come back for anything."

And while it's the Yuma Catholic program that helped Esquivel move on to college ball, it's been his family, specifically parents Bubba and Renee, that have paved the way for his success.

In a tweet on Sunday, Esquivel thanked many people, including his coaches, teammates and family.

The message to his parents said "I can't thank my parents enough for their sacrifices, love and encouragement they've given. Thank you for always pushing me and motivating me to be the best I can be...I love you guys for it."

He and his family came from Salinas, California five years ago. So even while not being originally from Yuma, it's been the support in the community that has stood out.

"We've always said it takes a village to raise a child," said Bubba Esquivel. "The love and support we've had from all these people, it shows. You look around and there's 70 people here to support my son. It's a beautiful feeling."

It's been quite a ride for Esquivel who also is the first in his family to receive a scholarship. Something his parents are extremely proud of.

"He has always impressed me," said Renee Esquivel. "I'm very hard on him. I'm like 'no you can do better, you gotta do more, you gotta work harder,' but he's like that on himself. So he's always impressed me and always stepped his game up. We're blessed. Beyond blessed. Blessed with the best."

And it will be a worthy send off to Wisconsin for the young kid. Something he earned.

"Yeah, proud doesn't do it justice. I mean he's my best friend," said Bubba Esquivel. "He's leaving me but it's all for the greater good. He earned his scholarship. He earned it. It wasn't given, he earned this. So I'm very, very proud of him."

As far as education, the soon-to-be-grad will be exploring digital media and film in the classroom, which is something he's been passionate about alongside football.

As for the future, Esquivel is going to ride out his time in college and see where football can take him--a possible shot at going pro.