COACH CASTRO AWARDED BETHANY COLLEGE ATHLETIC HALL OF HONOR

by Krista Norton | October 24, 2024

Jen Castro is the Junior High Football Coach, Head Softball Coach,  Powerlifting Assistant Coach, Elementary Interrelated Special Education teacher, and now can add the honor of being awarded the Athletic Hall of Honor Award from her alma mater Bethany College.   
The junior high football  team defeated the Stanton County Trojans on the Trojans home field, Thursday, October 17, 32-12, ending the season with a three game winning streak, and a 4 -3 record.
Head Coach Jen Castro said, “One of the highlights was our thrilling 32-26 victory over Elkhart, along with two solid wins against Stanton County!”

She praises quarterback Chaz Simon, who has shown amazing growth as a leader since last year. “He leads by example, and it shows on the field. In our game against Stanton County, Chaz completed 199 passing yards, averaging 50 yards per throw, and scored three touchdowns.”
Jen feels Anthony Gomez is a utility player who can excel anywhere on the field. “During homecoming week, we moved him as a receiver on offense, and he delivered with two touchdowns and several rushing yards.”

“Defensively, Braxton Parks and Franky Ramos were crucial in covering the outside, with Franky making so many tackles it was hard to keep count,” adding, “Our offensive line was outstanding, consistently protecting our quarterback and creating opportunities for scoring.”
Jen and assistant Clayton Wharton, are especially excited for the seventh grade coming up, “Particularly Brandon,” said Jen. “He made a big impact as a running back this season with several touchdowns and yardage.”

“This winning season is proof to the hard work and dedication of each and every one of these boys. We’re proud of their efforts and excited for what’s to come!” said Jen. 
Jen is also the head girls’ softball coach, assists her husband John “Rocky” on the powerlifting team,  is in the press box during the high school football games and is the Syracuse Elementary interrelated special education teacher. 

During the football season, Jen was honored at her alma mater, Bethany College in Lindsborg. She was named to their Athletic Hall of Honor Award which goes to alumni whose performance on the athletic field during their time at Bethany was noteworthy and exemplary. 
Some of her college awards include KCAC pitcher of the year, Bethany College Female Athlete of the year, Top ten in strikeouts for NAIA, Top fifteen in strikeouts per game, and multiple times KCAC athlete of the week.

She also holds two Bethany College Records of career pitching strikeouts and a career ERA of 2.26. As a team they wone the KCAC Championship (2012), KCAC Tournament Championship (2012), KCAC Tournament Runner Up (2014), and two-time qualifiers for Nationals (2013 and 2014). 
Reflecting on the weekend at Bethany, Jen said it was a memorable event, “Not only for receiving the award, but my parents who drove all the way from Harlingen, Texas and Rocky’s parents came from Santa Fe, Texas.”

She admits it was bittersweet, “As an athlete this would be my highest and last award I will receive.” She was thankful to reconnect with former coaches, friends, and professors over the weekend and being able to see old and new traditions. 
“Lindsborg is home away from home. Every time I revisit, the community welcomes Rocky and I with open arms,” said Jen.