RIO HONDO — The Rio Hondo Bobcats 2017 football season was one to remember for Erik Pizarro. And on Wednesday, the senior wide receiver sealed his college future by signing a letter of intent to play football at Lamar University next fall.
“This day means a lot to me. Ever since I was younger I have always wanted to play at a Division I school,” Pizarro said. “I envisioned myself doing this and here like I am today, but my best memories (from high school) are playing with my teammates, being able to play for such a great coaching staff and just putting out for the city of Rio Hondo.”
Pizarro was a part of one of the best offenses the Bobcats have ever seen. This year they averaged 45 points per game en route to a perfect district record along with a district and bi-district title.
Pizarro racked up huge numbers this past season as he hauled in 89 catches for 1,660 receiving yards and 20 touchdowns. He also averaged 18.7 yards per catch and for a career had 132 catches for 2,454 yards and 30 touchdowns.
His strong 2017 campaign earned him first-team all-state, District 16-4A Offensive Player of the Year and he was named to the Valley Morning Star’s All-STAR first team offense.
“I’m going to miss him personally. I have a great relationship with him,” said Rio Hondo coach Rocky James of Pizarro. “He left it all on the field with his team and from day one when we got him he wanted to play at the Division I level, and he will get that chance at Lamar. He had been looked at by a few schools, but once Lamar gave him an offer he knew he wanted to go there.”
Last year Pizarro was a part of the Blue-Grey All American game and was named the game’s offensive MVP. Pizarro plans on majoring in biology while at school.
“Lamar just felt like home. The coaching staff is great,” Pizarro said. “I got a warm welcome from the players as well and it just felt right. They recruited me to play receiver and their offense is similar to what I ran here in Rio Hondo so I’m excited to have the opportunity to play for the Cardinals.”
