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After a recent practice, Hagerty (Fla.) High School coach Steve Mikles came to defensive back Aurelio “Reli” Gutierrez with a massive request.
Mikles wanted Gutierrez, a rising senior, to address his teammates about perseverance, one of the team’s core values. Naturally, Gutierrez proudly and gratefully accepted the opportunity.
When speaking with Legacy Library, Gutierrez called the chance to stand in front of his teammates an “honor.”
“Football has taught me that perseverance isn’t just about overcoming obstacles,” Gutierrez told Legacy Library. “It’s about maintaining the discipline and work ethic to keep improving every single day.”
Gutierrez, who also plays linebacker, had 32 tackles, an interception, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery for the Huskies last year. He received scholarship offers from two Division III schools, Cornell College (Iowa) and Maine Maritime, last month.
Oberlin College, a Division III school in Ohio, gave Gutierrez his first scholarship offer in June. He kept busy throughout the summer, even attending the Coast Guard’s AIM (Academy Introduction Mission) program.
“I want people to know that I’m committed to doing the little things the right way every day,” Gutierrez said. “I believe success comes from consistency, accountability, and pushing through challenges, even when no one is watching.”
Mikles and the Huskies clearly feel that way, and they named Gutierrez a team captain ahead of next week’s opener against Lyman. Hagerty seeks its second consecutive winning season and fifth in six years.
“I strive to be a dependable teammate, a leader by example, and someone who always puts the team first,” Gutierrez said.
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