Raymondville hopes success continues in new league

RAYMONDVILLE - Size is a four-letter word in this tiny Willacy County town.
Raymondville head coach Alex Leal led his charges during their third official practice of the 2008 season on Wednesday at the high school.
But unlike in other years, size wasn't a pro.
This year's Bearkats aren't big. But they are fast.
Speed is the name of the game in Raymondville this year with guys like Dustin Alejo leading the way for the Bearkats.
"We have a lot of boys playing, but we're still small," Leal said. "That's all we've got. We can't sit here and wish we had the size of Rio Hondo or La Feria. We've got what we've got and we're gonna work to get better."
One thing Leal and the Bearkats do have working in their favor is experience.
Raymondville returns seven guys each on offense and defense.
Alejo leads the bunch on offense. The tailback-receiver brings great speed to the team.
Alejo qualified for the UIL State Track and Field Championships as a sophomore but was hurt last track season.
Leal expects big things from Alejo and the rest of the returners.
"He has remarkable ability," Leal said of Alejo who was clocked at 4.49 in the 40. "I've coached a lot of good receivers and he ranks up there with the best."
Raul Salinas returns at quarterback for the Bearkats, Jerry Rangel anchors the offensive line and Leroy "The Refrigerator" Salazar is at fullback once again.
On defense, lineman Rollie Cantu and middle linebacker Gilbert Hernandez are two-year starters and are figured to lead the stop troops.
"Because of our experience we're just polishing up and getting better right now," Leal said.
And Leal hopes all that experience pays off in District 32-3A - arguably one of the toughest leagues in the Valley this season.
Rio Hondo is favored to take the crown but Port Isabel, La Feria, Lyford and Zapata are all likely in the mix.
"There's a heck of a lot of parity," Leal said. "Every week is going to be a fight. I don't think there's one high school head and shoulders above the rest. It's a well-balanced district."
KEY LOSSES: J.C. Cortez (defensive line), Raul Pena (strong safety), Jake Garcia (receiver).
KEY RETURNERS: (running back-receiver), Raul Salinas (quarterback), Gilbert Hernandez (linebacker).
KEY GAMES: Rio Hondo (Oct. 23), Port Isabel (Oct. 31), Lyford (Nov. 6).