by Kevin Ford, Student Reporter
Nothing is more challenging than staying prepared when their number is rarely called.
For Sebastian Escalante, patience, hard work and respect brought him his long awaited opportunity.
Originally from Fresno, California, Escalante came to Alva for his official football visit back in the spring of 2015. Now, he is working as a graduate assistant for Northwestern football, Escalante said he is thrilled to work with young men who were once in his shoes.
Football has been a life enjoyment, Escalante said.
“My dad pushed me and guided me to be great in everything I do,” Escalante said.
This was a big reason why Escalante was a part of a league championship in eighth grade, following an undefeated season.
“We were down going into half and opened up the second half with a kickoff return for a touchdown,” Escalante said. “It was a special moment for me and my dad, who was coaching me at the time.”
Escalante experienced some hardship through his years playing football at Northwestern. Two herniated disks plagued Escalante during his redshirt sophomore year.
“I could barely lift any weights or participate in any team workouts,” he said. “I entered two and a half months of rehab with a chiropractor as a result of this injury.”
His back injury shifted his inspiration into sticking with biology and learning the functions of the body to help others gain a better understanding of taking care of it.
Escalante is no stranger to building networks, as he has maintained a high GPA throughout his years as a student athlete.
No matter what life throws at him, he strives to overcome adversity, Escalante said.
Escalante continues building personal relationships with people.
“Every day, every moment presents a new opportunity,” he said. “Appreciate what you have now.”