(Staff photo by Patricia M. McGrath)
By CONSTANCIO MARTINEZ, JR.
Special to the PRESS
District 16-4A Division 2, consisting of Port Isabel, Raymondville, Bishop, and La Grulla, had a tough year in 2023. The district as a whole only managed a single playoff win as (9-3) Port Isabel beat (3-8) Robstown 42-38 in the Bi-District round. The All-District selections are made once all the district teams complete their season. Head coach Tony Villarreal was named Coach of the Year, as the Tarpons were the only team to finish with a winning record during the 2023 season.
Earning the district’s MVP honors is running back Tristan Garcia. Although Garcia only rushed for 384 yards on 74 carries (via maxpreps.com), he was the team’s workhorse whose second efforts often kept the Tarpon drives going.
Another PI running back earning a prestigious honor was Andrew “AJ” LeBlanc, selected as the district’s Offensive Player of the Year. LeBlanc finished as the team’s leading rusher with 563 yards on 38 carries. He was the most well-rounded back the Tarpons fielded this year, and it was unfortunate that his season ended due to injury during a week eight matchup versus Raymondville.
At the start of the year, defensive end Christopher Gonzalez was eased into the lineup. By mid-season, he quickly became a force to be reckoned with. He finished with 62 total tackles and seven sacks, including a team-leading 15 tackles for a loss. For his efforts on the field, Gonzalez was selected as the district’s Defensive Player of the Year.
Two-way player Steven Martinez earned the district’s Offensive Lineman of the Year honors. Martinez, one of the leaders on the team, was a key player on both sides of the ball. He also earned 2nd Team Defensive Ends honors.
Pick up a copy of the Port Isabel-South Padre PRESS, or subscribe to our e-Edition by clicking HERE!