From the fields of Tijuana, Baja California, a young quarterback is emerging with passion, discipline, and vision. Diego Soto Martinez, Class of 2026, attends Instituto Bilingüe Santillana del Mar and has been immersed in football since the age of 7. Playing alongside his brother, David Soto M., sparked Diego’s early love for the game—and that bond remains a powerful influence in his journey as a quarterback.

“I enjoy playing with my friends, and I’m motivated by the excitement each play brings,” Diego shares. “Football has taught me how to lead a group and stay focused under pressure.” His understanding of the quarterback role goes beyond the basics: Diego emphasizes the importance of motivating teammates, maintaining physical mobility, developing accuracy and arm strength, and, above all, staying mentally locked in.

His favorite quarterback, Ben Roethlisberger, reflects Diego’s admiration for grit and leadership. Off the field, he unwinds by drawing and playing video games—but football remains the central theme in his daily life. “I train Monday through Thursday—one hour at the gym, then two hours on the field. On weekends, my brother and I study NFL, NCAA, and YouTube game footage to learn more.”

Despite facing setbacks, including a wrist and arm injury that once kept him from a championship game, Diego’s resilience has never wavered. “It was tough not being able to help my team, but the next year I came back and we won the championship,” he says, recalling the highlight of throwing the only touchdown pass in an 8–0 title victory.

A key figure in Diego’s growth has been Coach Gael Gutierrez of the Zopilotes Team. “He gave me confidence, guided me, and motivated me to be better—on and off the field,” Diego says with deep respect.

Now attending his first major quarterback camp, Diego is determined to absorb everything he can. “Right now, I just want to develop as a quarterback, learn as much as possible, and give myself better opportunities in the long run,” he explains. “My goal is to one day earn a chance to play college football.”

To fellow athletes, Diego offers simple but powerful advice: “Work as much as you can, be consistent, and practice, practice, practice.”