Yuma Catholic football gains experience on and off the field during Las Vegas trip

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) — The Yuma Catholic football team found more than just valuable repetitions during its offseason trip to Las Vegas.

Under Shamrocks new head coach Marty Schaetzle, Yuma Catholic traveled to the University of Nevada, Las Vegas for a 7-on-7 tournament after their traditional offseason trip to San Diego State fell through. The change of plans gave players an opportunity to compete while also experiencing lessons beyond football.

"We were trying to do something that was going to be a little bit different, maybe a little bit special," Schaetzle said. "We always try to do something for the students that takes them someplace they've never been before."

The trip accomplished its goal on the field, allowing the Shamrocks to gain valuable repetitions heading into the fall season.

"We were able to rep a lot of plays," Schaetzle said. "There were certain formations and certain things I wanted to get done, and we were able to get those reps and check them off the box."

While the football development was important, Schaetzle believes experiences away from the field can leave an even greater impact on his players.

"There's a lot to be learned past the X's and O's," Schaetzle said. "It just puts everything into a different perspective."

One of the highlights of the trip came during a visit to the Las Vegas Raiders' headquarters. Players toured the facility, viewed murals honoring franchise legends, learned about the organization's standards and expectations, and even briefly crossed paths with quarterback Kirk Cousins.

For Schaetzle, the visit reinforced many of the same values he emphasizes within his own program.

"They learned how to represent themselves," Schaetzle said. "A lot of the same things we talk to our student-athletes about — being on time, no cell phones in meetings, being respectful to others. That list really doesn't change whether it's the NFL, college or high school."

As Yuma Catholic prepares for the upcoming football season, the Shamrocks return home with more than just additional practice reps. They also gained lessons in leadership, professionalism and accountability that Schaetzle hopes will carry over both on and off the field.