Sanchez signs with NAIA school Haskell

Most signing ceremonies are simple.

The player sits at a table with a piece of paper in front of him, signs it while the family takes pictures, then fake-signs it more times so more photos can be taken.

When Manny Sanchez signed a letter of intent Wednesday to play at Haskell Indian Nations University, it was an event.

The San Pasqual fullback became the first person from the Quechan to play football collegiately, according to a news release. The event surrounding the signing featured traditional songs and speeches from tribal members honoring the player.

“It's a huge honor. It's really indescribable,” Sanchez said. “I didn't know about (being the first football player from the Quechan Reservation to play collegiately) until today. It's really an honor to be that person.”

The Indians went 0-11 last year. But Sanchez said he liked the way the coaching staff is committed to turning things around.

“I'm really excited to go there and help them build. The coaches are really focused on becoming one of the top programs in the conference.”

Sanchez said a few other schools were looking at him but he decided that Haskell was right for him.

“It really felt like family there. It's just the whole vibe up there, and the school's all Native Americans from all over the country. The coaches go out of their way to make you feel welcome, they give you plenty of help with schoolwork. It was really a nice place to be a part of.”

Sanchez just played his last basketball game Tuesday. Despite his size, he's been a sharp-shooting outside threat for the Warriors since he joined the team. Still, he said he's looking forward to committing fully to basketball.

“It's been on my mind. My basketball coach is really pushing me to play, but right now I'm focused on football.”