I played football in Dimmitt, Texas back in 1975-76. When my family moved after my sophomore year, I was torn and disappointed. My emotions were like a roller coaster going off the tracks. It was difficult to sleep at night wondering about my future, did I even have one? I was down about "not knowing" how my friends in Dimmitt felt. I didn't even get a chance to say goodbye. We had no iPhones back then -- it was a different life.
I was the new kid in town at Gervais High School. I played varsity football in the Capital Conference from 1977 to 1978. My football number was 42.
David Espinoza 42, brother Rich - top row to my right.
That time in my life was extremely emotional and full of heartaches. I was a little frustrated and always wondering, "why me?" I never gave up on surviving and I was blessed to have parents that worked at any labor job they could find.
I used football, and other sports as counseling. My team was great, I could always count on them to make me smile or to encourage me. I felt so accepted at this school by the students and the teachers.
Don't get me wrong, I learned so much in Texas -- so thankful. The skill sets that I developed in the South were a huge benefit. When I realized how much I was helping my team at Gervais, things started turning around for me. I was sleeping more at night, however, I wasn't eating much because there wasn't much food at our house. Living in poverty at home and pretending everything was okay at school was challenging. Somehow I made it work -- I never gave up.
Playing halfback with my brother, Rich, was like a dream come true. Thank you Coach Russ L. for putting us both as starting running backs. The Friday night lights were the best. Sports lifted my self esteem and the student body at Gervais made me feel valued. The cheers at the games made people like me feel absolutely amazing -- I am sure some of you can relate.
Gervais High School was where I met my high-school sweetheart, Candi. When she came into my life, it was like the Lord blessing me with something I never expected. That changed my life and helped me make huge progress in all areas.
Thank you to Gervais High School and to my teammates (in three sports). I am so glad that I still feel connected to some of the former students at this small school located between Salem and Woodburn.