Before every game, Jayka Santillan takes a walk across the field.
It is a simple routine for the Hugo High School senior quarterback, but one that gives him a few quiet moments before his attention shifts to coverages, play calls and leading the Buffaloes’ offense.
“My game day tradition is to walk the field before every game,” Santillan said.
Those walks mean a little more during his final season. Santillan has spent years playing football, and his focus now is on making the most of the time he has left in a Hugo uniform. More than anything, he wants the Buffaloes to still be playing when the postseason arrives.
“Go as far as I can into the playoffs,” Santillan said.
Getting there will require Santillan to continue growing at quarterback. He has put an emphasis on recognizing what defenses are showing him and making the right decisions once the ball is snapped.
His father has been an important part of that development.
“My dad, he’s helped me learn how to read coverages and has pushed me to my best,” Santillan said.
The mental demands of the position are part of what keep Santillan interested. He enjoys having to compete, adjust and take responsibility for what happens on the field.
“I enjoy the competitiveness it takes to be a QB,” he said.
There is also one opponent Santillan is particularly eager to face this season. When asked about the game he has circled on the schedule, his answer was short.
“Beat Lincoln Christian,” Santillan said.
Some of the moments he remembers most, though, came before his senior year. A one-touchdown victory over Antlers during his freshman season remains one of his favorite football memories.
The relationships built through Hugo football have become important, too. Santillan sees a group that wants to work together rather than simply show up on Friday nights.
“Everybody is wanting to be a part of the program and work as a family,” Santillan said.
Teammate DK helps set that tone in the locker room.
“DK, he is the most energetic guy in the locker room and keeps the motivation going,” Santillan said.
Away from football, Santillan participates in baseball and skeet shooting and enjoys hunting and fishing. Math is his favorite subject, while coach Trent is his favorite teacher.
Santillan has been playing football since he was 8, giving him plenty of time to learn that progress does not always come easily. It is also why the advice he would pass along to younger athletes is rooted in persistence.
“Push yourself no matter how hard it gets,” Santillan said.
As his time at Hugo winds down, that same approach is guiding what remains ahead.
“Everything isn’t easy,” Santillan said. “Follow your dreams and never give up.”
