Yuma’s Medel has dream of playing college football come true

Yuma's Jaynoah Medel signs college letter of intent to Ottawa University in Surprise, Arizona

YUMA, Ariz. ( KYMA, KECY-TV ) - According to Yuma High football player Jaynoah Medel, the first time he ever touched a football, playing at the collegiate level became his dream. On Friday afternoon with his parents and extended family by his side, Jaynoah made that dream become a reality when he signed his letter of intent to Ottawa University.

"The first day I touched a football this was the dream," Medel said. "Go to college and play."

Jaynoah did everything for the Criminals football team this past season. He led the team in touchdown passes as a quarterback with 10. He tied for the team lead in rushing touchdowns with three. On defense he led the Criminals in quarterback sacks and forced fumbles. Coming into the 2021 football season, the Criminals had high hopes of a winning season. The goal fell short with the Criminals finishing the season 2-7.

"It was a blessing to play here, win, lose, it wasn't about all that," Medel said. "It was mainly about playing football. If I could play football, no matter what it was fun. I had my teammates, they are my brothers , I played with them from my freshman year all the way to my senior year, got to know them personally and all of them are great."

Jaynoah says he signing is a team signing because without his coaches and teammates, his dream may not have become a reality. Although Jaynoah played both sides of the ball, he plans to tryout at quarterback for Ottawa University.

"I'm kind of nervous to go up there and play at the next level," Medel said. "I believe I can do it and I'm not afraid of competition."

Jaynoah hopes to win the starting quarterback position but says he'd be happy to just make the depth chart as well. He plans to major in business and perhaps someday, bring his knowledge and skills back to Yuma.