Peter Dindinger – NMMI Sports Press
One major reason why the Roswell Coyotes were able to capture back-to-back state titles in football during the 2018 and 2019 seasons was because of the major contributions from seniors Xavier Lomeli, Joel Sanchez and Jasia Reese.
In front of friends and family Thursday afternoon, the trio had a ceremony to announce the news that they will be attending New Mexico Military Institute.
Roswell head coach Jeff Lynn, a former head football coach and cadet at the institute, is excited for the opportunity his players are receiving.
"It feels great. I was a cadet. It was one of the best things I ever did for myself," Lynn said. "For these guys to get an opportunity to go up there and do the same things … it's awesome.
"I know they're in good hands. Coach (Joe) Forchtner's one of my good friends and a great coach. I'm excited for the next step in their career."
Xavier's brother, Dominic, is a former baseball player at NMMI who is now attending Adams State.
A 285-pound offensive lineman, Xavier had to overcome an injury during his career but it didn't put a damper on his goals of becoming a back-to-back state champ.
"I felt good coming off a broken foot," Xavier said. "I saw the team we had and I knew it was going to be something special. I worked harder than ever because I knew it was my last year.
"I had a great visit with NMMI. My brother went for two years, so I liked it a lot."
During last season's 13-0 campaign, Roswell High's offense averaged 47.3 points a game.
Sanchez was responsible for 18 touchdowns as a wide receiver. He proved to be versatile throughout his career as he also saw time as a placekicker and defensive back.
"Coach Lynn gave me a chance to play. My sophomore year I played corner and this year coach Lynn made me strictly offense. I was a little mad at him, but I think it paid off," Sanchez said.
Reese, a flashy and speedy wide receiver, scored nearly 20 touchdowns his senior year. Being able to beat Los Lunas twice in the state title game to capture the coveted blue trophy will be a memory etched in Reese's mind forever.
"Football is my life," Reese said. "So, to go back-to-back … I've been wanting to do that since I was a child."
When asked about his decision to further his education at NMMI, Reese replied, "I just feel like I need the structure and I feel like it's the best way to get me to where I want to be, and the education is really good. I've always had a passion for football."
"I think they're going to be a great fit up at New Mexico Military Institute," added coach Lynn about his players moving on to the next level. "I just think it's going to be great for all three of them."