by Kevin Farrell
SAN ANTONIO — Transferring from one school to the next is a big decision for any student-athlete. It can be an overwhelming and nerve-racking task, especially being a senior transfer from a different state.
Defensive back Mark Waters did exactly that and is making the most of his brief experience at UTSA while showcasing his talents to the Roadrunners coaching staff and his teammates, proving that he belongs as a member of the inaugural football team.
Waters started his college career at New Mexico State, but after his junior season, the Aggies coaching staff was let go and he found himself having to start over with a strong ambition to continue playing.
When he heard about head coach Larry Coker's arrival at UTSA, Waters decided it was time to make a move. He knew he could rely on his talent and energetic style of play to earn him a position on the newly-created team.
After his arrival in the Alamo City, it was apparent that the El Paso native would be an asset to the team. More importantly, he has established himself as one of the squad’s top defensive backs and has taken on the role of the emotional leader.
Waters insists his energy is the key in gaining confidence for this young team.
“I just play as hard as I can,” he said. “I'm still trying to prove that I deserve to be here. Every day I step on the field, I try to be as energetic and upbeat as possible. This is my last chance to play football and I want to make an impression.”
Waters racked up two tackles and broke up a pair of passes at last Saturday’s UTSA Football Fiesta Spring Game, presented by Health Texas. The game was a sneak peak at what fans can expect in the fall and it was obvious that he will be a dominant presence for the defense in 2011.
“You couldn't ask for a harder worker than Mark Waters,” Coker said. “He’s really come on the scene for us and surpassed all of our expectations. The way he plays is contagious to his teammates and I'm really looking forward to what he can produce for us on the defensive side of the ball this fall.”
His performance on the field has solidified his position as the Roadrunners free safety, a position that requires a great amount of leadership and patience. As one of the most experienced players on the team, Waters is looking forward to mentoring younger teammates and he hopes to lead the Roadrunners to a winning record in their inaugural season.
“I'm so excited to show the fans what we can do,” he said. “San Antonio is a perfect place for me. Everyone in this program has made it a very easy transition and I'm hoping to return the favor. This is a chance for me to play for a great head coach and it will give me the opportunity to teach some of the younger guys how to come into their own on the football field.”
With the season only a few months away and a new class of recruits coming in, Waters is determined to show that UTSA can enter the Western Athletic Conference on a high note in 2012.
As the team prepares for its season opener against Northeastern State, many questions still remain about personnel on the field and how the team will improve for the upcoming season. Players like Waters that bring energy and leadership every day will undoubtedly propel the Roadrunners to a successful first season.
