BROWNSVILLE – When it’s time to play, St. Joseph Academy senior David Rodriguez puts in work.

“He tries really hard out here and he’s earned himself a starting job since he was a sophomore,” said coach Tino Villarreal. “Done a great job for us. He’s been an all-state free safety.”

Off the field, Rodriguez strives to be the best as well. He volunteers as much as he can, helping out at soup kitchens and he’s also part of the school’s green team, which focuses on city and beach clean ups.

“Animals are also beings of this planet and just because they’re not humans doesn’t mean we shouldn’t care for them,” said Rodriguez. “Their home is the ocean and the beach. Just as we wouldn’t want them messing with our land, we shouldn’t mess with their land.”

Rodriguez’s dedication to volunteering earned him an “Unsung Hero Award” from statewide football magazine Dave Campbell’s Texas Football.

“Good to be recognized but it was never really about the recognition,” said Rodriguez. “It’s just about doing service for others and helping our community.”

“It’s a big honor for David and also for St. Joseph Academy,” said Villarreal. “Here at St. Joseph Academy, we pride ourselves on our commitment to service and our commitment to being out in the community. David is an example of that.”

As part of his award, Rodriguez was given a $500 scholarship.