Reprint from the Progress Times - December 21, 2007
©Progress Times 2007 - All Rights Reserved

 

Joe R. Sanchez named MCISD director of athletics

After 29 years of teaching and coaching at every level from junior high to college, Joe R. Sanchez has condensed his experiences and insight into three very simple guidelines.

"You have to do what’s right, do your best and treat others as you would have them treat you," said Sanchez. "Those are the three basic rules I use."

Sanchez will soon have an opportunity to bring his stripped down style to a whole new district as he will officially begin his tenure of director of athletics for Mission Consolidated Independent School District (MCISD) on January 7.

Sanchez, who is currently the athletic coordinator and head football coach at Pharr-San Juan-Alamo (PSJA) Memorial High School, graduated from Rio Grande City High School in 1972. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree and Masters of Education degree from Sul Ross State University.

Although at different times in his career Sanchez has taught physics, pre-algebra, biology and physical science, he believes it is through athletics that students can truly be reached.

"It’s easier to make a connection with the kids through athletics," said Sanchez. "In this world now, discipline is no longer here. Athletics is kind of the last frontier to teach them sound discipline and they’re very responsive. Every kid wants structure and I think that’s important."

As director of athletics, Sanchez will be charged with overseeing all athletics at the district’s schools; a job Sanchez knows full well can be a daunting one.

"One of the things that is difficult and challenging is that I’ve been at PSJA for quite some time. My first job is to figure out what needs to be done here. I have to evaluate and find out ways to keep improving and find better ways with other people to help Mission get better."

One of the things Sanchez hopes to have stressed is the proper role of athletics.

"The students need to understand that the reason I can coach and take care of my family is because I got my degree. We need to tell them that. Athletics is the only reason some kids come to school," said Sanchez. “So you use that to get them to school and then help them understand that academics is also important. That’s why the No Pass No Play rule is so positive. You can’t forget about it, as a student."

According to Sanchez, one of the most important things athletics teaches students is how to work as a team, which is a lesson Sanchez says he’ll keep in mind as he joins a new team.

"One of the most important things athletics teaches you is to work as one contributing to the whole, that’s a constant theme all coaches teach," said Sanchez. "Just like I will have to work with all the coordinators and coaches, when all of us are a part of something, it always turns out better."