Gonzales signs to run track, XC at McMurry

By Melissa McCaghren

Slatonite GM

Zach Gonzales, a senior at Slaton High School, signed a letter of intent to run track and cross country at McMurry University Friday morning (Jan. 22) during a ceremony at Slaton High School. His parents, Louisa and Billy Gonzales, were with him when he signed.

Gonzales said McMurry was a good fit for his plans to learn, but not be too far away. “I did not want to stray away from the small school environment, it was a good distance from home and the coach and other runners there looked like they were ready to do something great,” he said.

The senior added he was excited for the next stage of his life. “(I look forward) being on my own for the first time to finally learn how to do things and meeting new people,” said Gonzales.

Cross Country Coach Landon Sims is excited for Gonzales’ future. “Zach is an incredible young man. He is by far the best leader I have ever coached. His character is outstanding and I know he will do well at McMurry. I am excited for him and the next phase of his life,” he said.

Still, there is track season to come at Slaton High School and then graduation before he can run for the War Hawks. Time left for memory making his senior year before going to the university and studying business management.

“I am making memories with friends and teammates seeing everyone at the signing made me feel cared for,” he said. “I am forever grateful for the dual credit program for preparing me for the balance of sports college work and high school work. I think I will be well prepared for the balance next fall. Thank you Slaton for being my home for my entire life. The support has been truly unreal.”