Ubaldo Encinia is true defensive playmaker for Pace Vikings

Ubaldo Encinia has become a force as a sophomore nose tackle for the Brownsville Pace Vikings.

The 5-foot-11, 225-pound Encinia was a key contributor on defense in the helping the Vikings (7-2, 5-1 District 32-5A) record a 33-28 victory over San Benito on Saturday to set up Thursday’s 7 p.m. showdown against Hanna (8-1, 6-0) at Sams Memorial Stadium with the 32-5A title at stake. It’s The Brownsville Herald’s Game of the Week.

"Ubaldo has been a pleasant surprise for us," Pace coach Rene Medrano said. "He’s come on strong, and he really helps us out on the defensive line. He plays hard every time out and always gives us a spark. I think his quickness and his strength are what make him a force." 

Encinia is one of Pace’s top tacklers and estimated that he has at least 10 sacks on the season. He said part of his pre-game routine is envisioning what will take place during the contest.

"Before the game, I’m just visualizing everything and just picturing what will happen such as sacking the quarterback, getting to the running back and things like that," he said. "When we go in there, everything happens."

Encinia credits solid chemistry and good communication on defense for making the Vikings effective in carrying out their schemes. Against San Benito, Pace limited the Greyhounds to just seven points in the second half and thwarted a last-gasp drive to preserve the win.

"I think we just really wanted to win (against San Benito), and maybe we wanted it more than they did," Encinia said. "Our defense was there and on the ball all the time because we knew we had to stop their running game, and we came out victorious. Maybe the defense was the difference in the game, but our offense did pretty good, too.

"It sure feels great because we’re all friends, and we’re all together in this. We’re one family, one team. We play our best and leave it all on the field. The team is doing great, and I just love the feeling of playing for the district title.

"We just have to stay hungry, humble and stingy, and make it three and out (for Hanna)."

From time to time, Encinia gets a chance to play fullback on offense. He relishes those opportunities, but his heart is still on defense.

"I ran the ball against San Benito and gained 8 yards for a first down on a fourth-and-1," he said. "Doing that is fun, but you’ve got to love (playing) defense."

Added Medrano, "Ubaldo’s done that several times for us this season. He’s helping us out on offense, too." 

The Vikings have qualified for the state playoffs a third straight season. They want to go beyond the bi-district round this year and make it a memorable season.

"We practice, practice and practice, and our payment is (doing well in) the game," Encinia said. "It’s great to be a part of this team. Coach Medrano expects a lot from us, and we’re going to give it to him."