California athletes sign with Baja California college football team

Two students have enrolled in CETYS University’s Global Program and will be part of the Zorros football team

Quarterback Jayden Ayala and linebacker Darian Romo, both from Imperial High School in Imperial, California, signed their acceptance letters to study at CETYS University next semester and join the Zorros football College League team.

The Zorros will play their first season in the 14 Greats Conference of Mexico’s National Student Football Organization (ONEFA).

David Shaw, Imperial High School Tigers’ head coach, commented on the signing of Jayden and Darian, saying “I believe it's a historic day. These are our first players signing to play at CETYS University or any other institution outside of our country. They are both very good players.”

“Romo is an excellent and strong linebacker, while Ayala is a leader and a natural quarterback who can definitely throw the ball with confidence. I'll be looking forward to seeing their results with the team and how they will help CETYS University stay in the 14 Greats Conference,” Shaw said.

CETYS University Zorros head coach Luis Cervantes spoke about the importance of recruiting Jayden and Darian: “We continue to offer opportunities to high schools in the United States, as we did last year with students from Calexico High School Bulldogs. These two Tigers athletes will help us greatly, due to their versatility. Add to that the fact that these are young people who trust CETYS University, its academic model, and the football program.” Cervantes added, “The idea is to continue recruiting from Tigers and Bulldogs; they will be our ambassadors for the students who come after them.”

Ayala, who has Mexican parents, expressed, “I'm very excited, it's a blessing to be here in front of my student community and to be able to sign to study at CETYS University. I was fortunate to have the opportunity to play for Imperial High School, and now to attend CETYS, studying a Bachelor’s Degree in International Business through the institution’s Global Program, with classes 100% in English. This interests me greatly and I believe will help me prepare for my future.”

“I'm ready to play with the Zorros,” added linebacker Darian Romo. “I'm also going to study International Business in the Global Program. CETYS convinced me because it's a great school. It feels good, it's a good opportunity and I must make the most of it.”

The CETYS University College League Football team won the 2024 ONEFA National Conference Championship after an undefeated season. This earned them advancement to the 14 Greats Conference. Manager Luis Cervantes was recently honored with the Golden Helmet as Coach of the Year in the Mexican Football Hall of Fame.