Alexander’s Coach Garcia Inducted into Latin American Sports Hall of Fame
Written by admin, Jan 22, 2014, Comments Off
Courtesy Alex Meyer,
(Laredo, Tx)-On January 18, 2014, Alexander High School baseball coach Mario Garcia was one of a handful of honorees inducted into the Latin American International Sports Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame was organized in 1974 to celebrate local and regional individuals who excel at their particular sport and through their efforts, contribute to the betterment of our youth and city.
Prior to becoming Alexander’s head baseball coach when the campus opened its doors in the fall of 1994, Garcia taught at LISD’s Lamar Jr. High School, the Laredo Job Corps and United High School with Coach Alfredo Espinoza. This year marks the beginnning of Garcia’s 20th year at Alexander High School. Under his direction, the formidable Alexander Bulldog Varsity baseball team has enjoyed a steady stream of success. In 1999, the team were named Semi-Finalists in that year’s Final Four. Most recently, the team became the 2013 5A State Region IV Quarterfinalists. In 2011 and 2012 the Bulldog team earned two consecutive trips to the 5A State regional IV Finalist Elite Eight division. In 2008, 2009 and 2010 the Bulldogs made appearances at the State Playoffs as District Finalists. Coach Garcia’s accomplishments with the Bulldogs also includes 257 career wins and recognition as Coach of the year for the All District and All City Teams for six years.
Despite his numerous triumphs, coach Garcia’s greatest source of pride comes from the knowledge that many of his former students have surmounted their own challenges to become successful college level baseball players, coaches and assistant coaches. With regards to his induction into the Latin American International Sports Hall of Fame, Garcia was greatly humbled by the experience. “I was excited to be there amongst fellow inductees and it was amazing to be surrounded by all that greatness” said Garcia. During his interview with The Insider, Coach Garcia expressed appreciation for the support he has received from his wife Laura Garcia, who is PEIMS Coordinator at UISD, and his three children Denise, Alexa and Chipper. Garcia also gave thanks to Raul Treviño, Alexander High School’s first Principal and the current and former Bulldog players who have made his coaching experiences so richly rewarding.
