Santa Rosa qualifies for 7on7 football state tournament

SANTA ROSA, Texas (ValleyCentral) — Santa Rosa is a small school making a big splash, competing in a state tournament in 7on7 football.

“You know, it’s my first time being quarterback, we didn't make it last year,” Riley Fonseca, sophomore, quarterback said. “I was a receiver. We didn't qualify, but I'm quarterback this year and we qualified and I’m excited to be a part of it. And with the crew I have, I like it”

It is only the second time the Warriors have made it to state, and they’re embracing that underdog mentality.

“Because all the teams are like up there from like upstate, you know we’re the only team down here,” said Damian Lopez, sophomore, wide receiver. "They are going to look down on us but you know we got that dog in us to make it.”

Junior wide receiver Nate Ortega believes 7on7 helps build a connection between receiver and quarterback.

“We're a great one-two combo,” said Ortega. “Our chemistry is awesome. We've worked together a lot and will continue to work for the season. Hopefully, we'll have the same chemistry out there on the field.”

Junior linebacker/wide receiver Mikolus Sanchez is eager to prove this team belongs and is hoping to produce a solid showing at state.

“It will be big coming from a small town and no one believing in us that we can make, it would be awesome,” said Sanchez. “Being underdogs, we have more to fight for, so we have less lose but more to earn. If anything, we're just gonna make the best of it, and show them what we got.”