GONZALES — On Friday night at Dick Force Stadium, Gonzales High senior football player Lawrence “Larry” Bettencourt was honored as one of the San Francisco 49ers’ nominees for the NFL’s Latino Youth Honors program this year.
“This is the third year that we have chosen a tackle football player and a flag football player from Monterey County,” said Tucker Baksa of the 49ers Foundation. “Larry was the football nominee, along with flag football player Alissa Escutia from Salinas High.”
Bettencourt was completely surprised for being recognized by the 49ers and still had his football helmet on as he was waiting for the game to start.
“Once I saw my parents come on the field, I knew something was up,” Bettencourt said. “I never expected to be honored like this. I am very thankful and excited about this opportunity.”
Bettencourt, the son of Larry and Basilia Bettencourt of Gonzales, is a busy young man as he participates in football and track and field while maintaining a strong GPA at Gonzales High. He also is a member of the Future Farmers of America and works part-time at the Gonzales McDonald’s.
Bettencourt was presented with a football from 49ers mascot Sourdough Sam in front of a packed house that attended the Little Big Game against King City. Sourdough Sam arrived early and joined the Spartans while they were warming up before the contest. He also took time out to try out some cheers with the Gonzales High cheer team.
Gonzales High Principal Keith Thorbahn introduced Bettencourt to the crowd and praised him for his efforts as a player and student.
“It is quite an honor honestly, not just for being a Gonzales student but for someone from Gonzales,” Thorbahn said. “It is an honor as there were only 32 athletes chosen from Northern California and just two from Monterey County. I don’t feel they could have selected a better student-athlete from Gonzales High.”
Gonzales High head football coach Eddy Ramirez also praised Bettencourt for his commitment to the program.
“Lawrence is very deserving of this honor for his achievements at school and for being a great teammate with all the players on our varsity team,” Ramirez said. “He comes from a good family that has always supported our program.”
Bettencourt will be attending a 49ers game on Sept. 21, during which he will be recognized and could be considered along with the other nominees for a $5,000 award. As the nominee, they can also be considered for an additional $25,000 scholarship and national recognition during Super Bowl week.
