La Feria’s Yerena to throw discus at Texas Lutheran University

By BILLY WATSON
LFN

College signings continue to be unique during these unusual times.

La Feria multiple-sport athlete Alex Yerena signed his letter of intent at his home in late April to throw discus at Texas Lutheran University in Seguin.
While track & field earned him a trip to college, Yerena was also a three-year football letterman on the offensive line and was also named 16-4A Offensive Lineman of the Year. Most recently, he was named to the RGVCA All-Star Game East roster to conclude his football career.

“I’m extremely happy to finally sign,” Yerena said. “I’ve been in love with discus since I started in seventh grade and it feels good to have an opportunity to continue throwing.”

Like most Valley athletes, Yerena’s senior season was cut short due to the coronavirus outbreak, but that did not stop his recruiting process from taking shape.

“The recruiting process was really unique,” Yerena said. “Coach (Evie Sanchez) told me that a coach from TLU has asked about me and that he gave him my contact information. Later that week, Coach Wolf, the discus coach, emailed me and said he wanted to get me on a visit. He and Coach Holland made me feel right at home, and the other throwers did as well. From then on, I knew where I needed to be for the next four years.”

Some of Yerena’s stats include being a 2019 district bronze medalist and area qualifier with a personal best 150-feet, 10-inch throw.

The neat thing about Yerena’ signing was not only that it took place in the comfort and safety of his own home to conform with social distancing guidelines, but that he inked his letter in a setting similar to the La Feria High School library, which is where most La Feria athletes usually sign their letters of intent.

“I’m thankful that my friends and family were able to make it despite the circumstances,” Yerena said on a Twitter post. “Next stop, Seguin, Texas!”