PANORAMA — The smile can’t be wiped off the face of the 6-foot-1 right tackle and defensive lineman wearing No. 54 for Fulton’s football team.
Sophomore Chris Esquivel protects the blindside of the team’s quarterback Ethan Ramos, finds an opposing jersey to hit, and puts all his strength into protecting his teammates. He lays down a block before receiving high-fives and hugs from teammates.
“He’s an inspiration,” Fulton coach Steve Smith said of Esquivel. “He’s a guy that wants to come out and show you. He can overcome all obstacles.”
Esquivel was born with autism, but on the football field he is Chris, the guy who shows effort and joy in every aspect of the game. He listens and takes advice from Smith and the coaching staff before running onto the field to deliver more force to help his team.
“I try my best to get my spot, and I want to make my Mom proud,” Esquivel said.
Football wasn’t in Esquivel’s immediate plans. At first he tried out for the basketball team but was cut.
That’s when he was approached by Smith, who asked him to give football a try after another player quit the team. Fulton needed an offensive lineman, and Esquivel wanted to play.
“It was my time to shine,” Esquivel said. “I have to lock in, and I’ll try my best to win for my team.”
Fulton is off to a strong start at 2-1. After losing to Panorama 52-12 on Thursday, Esquivel was there after the game, cleaning the sidelines and boosting the confidence of his teammates.
“Christopher is a great kid,” Fulton athletic director Matthew Holtzman said. “I’ve watched him develop over the years, as Fulton is a span school from sixth through 12th grade. We had him in physical education as a middle schooler. And he turned into a great high school student. I’m very grateful, very proud that he’s joined a sports team, and he’s moved on to greater endeavors.
“He’s developing into a great young man, learning great character, and I’m looking forward to watching him this season.”
Esquivel didn’t know whether he’d be playing football or basketball. All he wanted to do was play and be part of a team.
Now he has gone from trying to doing and becoming a massive piece in Fulton’s success.
“All the kids …they love what they’re seeing out of him,” Smith said.
Esquivel believes in himself and everyone around him.
“I love to tackle,” Esquivel said, “but I also want to win for this team.”
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