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Five Questions With Outstanding Alumnus Rigoberto Sanchez

As a first-generation college graduate from a small town, Indianapolis Colts punter and 2023 Outstanding Alumnus Rigoberto Sanchez is keenly aware of the importance of positive representation. The oldest of five siblings from Hamilton City, Sanchez grew up admiring his parents' resilience and work ethic. He also grew up playing soccer but was encouraged to go out for the football team in high school, where the same pair of cleats doubled as soccer and football footwear. After graduating from Hamilton High School in 2012, Sanchez became the first person in his family to attend college. He hoped his decision to pursue higher education would inspire his younger siblings to go after their dreams.

He said choosing to play football at Butte instead of taking an opportunity to play soccer for Santa Rosa Junior college was "the hardest thing ever." The decision, however, set him on a path to success. At Butte College, he set single-season (11) and career (22) field goal records and met his future wife, Cynthia. He completed his collegiate career University of Hawaii on a football scholarship. 

In 2017, Sanchez signed with the Indianapolis Colts, making him a leader and role model on a national scale. Sanchez has used his platform to inspire kids to strive for their goals regardless of their circumstances. He leads the Indianapolis Colts' annual Hispanic Heritage Month football camp and promotes causes from literacy to lung cancer awareness. Every summer, Sanchez hosts the Rigo Sanchez Youth Football Camp in his hometown of Hamilton City, where his photo proudly hangs behind registers at local gas stations and restaurants. "As a young kid, I remember being in their position and not knowing what was out there for me," he said. He hopes his story and presence inspire these kids to become whatever they want to be, whether it's a pro athlete, teacher or doctor. 

Sanchez will be honored at this year's Butte College Spring Gala on Saturday, March 11, 2023.

1. How did attending Butte College impact your career and future?

Butte College had a major impact on my career. It set me around great coaches and players who helped me develop into the young man I was. The traits I picked up from doing the right thing on and off the field were the foundation that helped me carry through the rest of my career. It showed me grit and authenticity and, most importantly, helped me believe in myself.

2. What did being the first person in your family to attend college mean to you?

Being the first in my family to attend college and being able to graduate and move on was major. Being the oldest, showing my siblings the sky is the limit was the ultimate goal. It made my parents and siblings proud.

3. You've dedicated much of your time to helping inspire children and younger athletes through your charity work. What does this work mean to you, and how do you hope your story helps the next generation?

Giving back was always one of my main goals. It goes beyond what I do, in my opinion. It helps give them hope that one day they can accomplish many things in life regardless of where they come from.

4. What does receiving this award mean to you?

This award means everything to me. I'm grateful to everyone who has helped me reach this goal; my wife, family, coaches and everyone who truly invested in me throughout my career. It's really an example to everyone who has a dream; anything is possible no matter where you are from.

5. What advice would you give to your younger self?

Take advantage of every opportunity. Work now and shine later.