Calexico senior with autism scores first home touchdown on Senior Night

CALEXICO, Calif. (KYMA) - A touchdown can change the scoreboard, but for Calexico High School senior Sergio “Keko” Molina, crossing the goal line Friday night meant much more.

During a memorable evening at Ward Field, Molina scored a touchdown on his home field for the first time, capping a night filled with milestones as the Bulldogs celebrated Senior Night and Homecoming.

The occasion was especially meaningful for his mother, Paulette Ramirez, who graduated from Calexico High School. Watching her son score a touchdown at the same school where she once walked the halls made the moment even more special.

“It was a very nice experience at Homecoming, Senior Night and him scoring a touchdown," Ramirez said. "It was the cherry on top."

Molina, a student with autism, has continued to put in the work and build connections through his involvement with various Bulldogs' sports. His routine includes time in the weight room, film sessions and practices, all leading up to moments like Friday night.

When asked about his favorite part of scoring the touchdown, Molina kept his answer simple.

“Oh, it was 100 percent the running,” he said.

For Ramirez, being part of the team is about more than football. She hopes the experience helps her son continue to develop independence, build relationships and find his place in the community.

“I’m not going to be able to protect my son for life,” Ramirez said. “So I want him to be able to be in a society, whether it’s sports and everything else. And him being able to, to develop.”

Bulldogs head football coach Fernando Solano said Molina has made a lasting impression on his teammates and coaches with his positive attitude and willingness to work.

Solano said Molina regularly arrives at practice greeting everyone with a smile, bringing energy even during difficult workouts in the desert heat.

“Sergio, he’s just an amazing kid," Solano said. "He comes into practice saying hi to everybody. Always smiling, you know... But he’s out there grinding just like every kid.”

The touchdown was just one part of a busy night for Molina, who also celebrated Senior Night and walked with the eventual Homecoming queen during halftime.

For Molina and his family, the evening was a reminder that some of the most meaningful moments in sports go beyond the final score. Creating memories, celebrating hard work and bringing an entire community together.