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Football's Jesse Garza Commits to Eastern Illinois
Posted: Jun 22, 2023

Football's Jesse Garza Commits to Eastern Illinois

CHARLESTON, Ill. - Allan Hancock College football linebacker, Jesse Garza, will continue his academic and athletic career at the next level after announcing his commitment to Eastern Illinois University.

"I chose EIU for many reasons. First, it has a small-town feel that just felt like home and it is a place that is filled with great people. Second, I can see myself being successful here on both the field and in the classroom. The third reason is that the program matched what I was looking for - a place where I can compete, be successful, grow, and have the opportunity to take football to the next level," Garza stated. "Lastly, but most importantly, this is where I feel Jesus has called me to be. After much prayer and guidance from those that I love, this is the place he has called me to."

Garza, a local product out of Nipomo, has spent two seasons on the field for the Bulldogs. As a sophomore, the inside linebacker was tabbed as a Second Team All-League selection after leading the team with 72 total tackles and three forced fumbles on the season. He was also named to the Second Team All-League list as a freshman after tallying 40 tackles, including 5.5 tackles for loss, and one interception through eight contests. 

"My time at AHC has helped me in many ways. Academically, it gave me every opportunity to pursue an education that would lead into my career while also providing me the support and help that I needed to make sure I could be a successful student," Garza added. "Athletically, I was provided with a coaching staff that made sure I was a 'student' first. They enhanced my knowledge of the game and skill set, which literally helped get me to the next level. Maybe most importantly though, they helped me grow as a young man." 

The Panthers are a Division I member of the NCAA and compete in the Big South-Ohio Valley Conference Football Association.