My name is Hunter Rodriguez. I was the quarterback for Desert Vista — last year’s state championship team.
I heard what happened to the Gilbert coaches and cannot believe they got fired. I can personally testify on their behalf with the utmost confidence. I played and trained under Rodgers for two years and was the teammate of a coach on staff for three. I have personally seen Gilbert play and practice. Rodgers was, and still is, one of the best coaches I have ever had and he would never do anything like that. I am a better man because of Coach Rodgers and I know all the Gilbert kids would say the same.
He was motivational and dedicated to making his players better on and off the field. I cannot believe the injustice that has occurred as he should never have lost his job. The coach I had the privilege of playing with is without a doubt one of the best men I know.
For Austin to have this on his coaching record is ridiculous. The Gilbert coaching staff was unfairly accused of things that are against their character. Rodgers will always be an inspirational and life-changing coach. He does not deserve to have been fired and does not deserve to have this on his record. I hope the truth comes to light and these men are able to get hired on somewhere else or reinstated at Gilbert.
Hunter Rodriguez
University of Utah freshman
Leon Ceniceros posted at 6:40 pm on Fri, Dec 7, 2012.
The Gilbert School District held and investigation. The Board needs to get a release from the coach and whom ever else on his staff that were let go and publish the Report. This will put an end to the speculation and inuendo around this incident. These young men are students first, athletes second. Their education should not suffer because of any athletic activity, under any circumstances. It is the duty of the Athletic Director and the Principal to "OVERSEE" that any and all student athletic activities do not interfere with the Primary goal of .....giving each and every student the best education that they are able to. These High School student athletes are not adults, they are 16-17-18 year old young men and women and should be treated accordingly.
Irons1 posted at 10:19 am on Sat, Dec 8, 2012.
You should be treated accordingly, AND IGNORED