Rising Stars from the Rio Grande Valley: Fabian Garcia and Frank Medina Shine at UTRGV

Football enthusiasts in the Rio Grande Valley have a special reason to cheer this season. Two San Benito natives, Fabian Garcia and Frank Medina, are lighting up the field for the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) Vaqueros, showcasing their skills and hometown pride.

A Journey Rooted in Community

Fabian Garcia and Frank Medina’s bond traces back to their childhood days playing football in San Benito. Although they started their football journeys at different ages, their paths converged when they became teammates in high school, and now they find themselves on the same college offensive unit.

"The nostalgia of coming back to your roots is incredible. This is where it all began for me, and I feel grateful for the chance to represent my hometown," Garcia expressed. His sentiments were echoed by Medina, who stated, "I love being here and contributing in any way I can. This place holds a special meaning for me."

High School Glory: Leadership and Achievement

Medina proved his mettle in high school by serving as captain during his senior year at San Benito. His exceptional performance earned him the title of Co-Offensive Lineman of the Year. "I aimed to make my senior year memorable. With the support from my coaches, I endeavored to set a standard for the younger players," he recalled proudly. Meanwhile, Garcia, in his junior year, excelled as well, rushing for over 2,000 yards and accumulating 30 total touchdowns while benefiting from Medina’s blocking.

Now reunited, the duo is focused on propelling the Vaqueros toward success in the NCAA. "The opportunity to be home was a major factor in my decision to join UTRGV. When the coach reached out, I was all in," Garcia remarked, reflecting on his collegiate choice.

A Determined Path to UTRGV

Before joining UTRGV, Medina played a season at Texas A&M University-Kingsville. Yet, after realizing his potential was underutilized there, he decided to pursue a new avenue. Attending an open tryout for UTRGV, Medina shifted gears, proving his determination as a walk-on player. "At first, I thought football might not be in my plans anymore, but Coach Gomez encouraged me to try out. He told me it was all about seizing the opportunity," Medina explained.

San Benito Head Football Coach Dan Gomez emphasized the importance of this decision, saying, "I wanted Frank to have the chance to play college football and create unforgettable experiences."

Making Their Mark in College Football

Medina’s perseverance paid off as he quickly earned a starting position on the offensive line, while Garcia made an impact on the field by scoring a touchdown in the first game of the season. "It wasn’t a surprise to see them do well; when they get the opportunity, they know how to maximize it. The key now is to prove their worth beyond just making the roster," Coach Gomez noted.

Garcia shared insights on resilience, stating, "I know we’re both dedicated. When I work hard, I know he will be right behind me, ready to leverage the opportunities I create."

The Future Looks Bright

As the season progresses, both Garcia and Medina are poised to leave their mark on the Vaqueros’ 2023 campaign. Their connection goes beyond the football field, as they embody the spirit of teamwork and hard work essential for success.

Fabian Garcia and Frank Medina are this week’s "Made in the 956 – Vaqueros Edition," signifying their commitment not only to their sport but also to their community in the Rio Grande Valley.

For more highlights on local athletes making waves in college sports, you can check out UTRGV’s latest updates on official website or follow their social media channels for real-time news and updates on the team’s performance.

Stay tuned to witness the journeys of these talented players as they continue to inspire future generations in the Rio Grande Valley and beyond.