My name is Carter Vargas, and I grew up in the small town of Santa Maria on California’s Central Coast. My love for sports started when I was a toddler. I am the youngest of three children, and sports were a big part of our family.
My older brother, Jayden, played football and basketball. I looked up to him and wanted to be just like him. Since he was six years older than me, I spent a lot of time watching his practices and games from the sidelines. My sister also played basketball and encouraged me to stay active and spend time outside playing sports.
My dad was another major influence in my life. He played sports growing up and later coached all of us kids. Looking back, coaching was his way of showing love. He was tough on us and never took it easy, but he taught me important lessons about hard work, discipline, and perseverance. He always reminded me that nothing in life is guaranteed and that success comes from effort and dedication. His favorite line was, “There are no handouts-you want it work for it,” it stuck.
I started playing soccer when I was four years old. Soon after, I added baseball, basketball, and wrestling. At age seven, I was finally old enough to play tackle football. I had been waiting for that moment for as long as I could remember. I wanted to carry the football just like my brother.
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Throughout my youth football years, I was fortunate to have my dad as one of my coaches. With both my dad and brother pushing me, there were no shortcuts. They constantly challenged me to become the best version of myself. I remember spending extra hours practicing in our backyard. At the time, I thought they were crazy, but now I realize those moments taught me determination, dedication, and resilience.
One of the most memorable times in my childhood came during eighth grade when I felt I needed to choose which sport I wanted to focus on so I could work towards getting a scholarship for college. I was an excellent baseball pitcher, but I had started to find the game too slow. Basketball was another sport I loved. I enjoyed the fast pace, the strategy, and the challenge. Shooting three-pointers came naturally to me, and being on the court always felt exciting.
Even so, I chose football.
There was something special about the adrenaline, the competition, and the feeling of running into the end zone. Football gave me a rush that no other sport could match.
Then the world changed. The COVID-19 pandemic affected everyone, and
my life changed dramatically. There was no school, no friends, no team practices, and no games. Everything seemed to stop. But I choose to workout everyday.
The challenges I faced growing up helped prepare me for that difficult time. Instead of giving up, I decided to improve myself. At thirteen years old, I committed to a high-protein diet and began training at a small
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private gym. I worked out twice a day, lifting weights and pushing myself to get stronger. I will always be grateful to Mark for allowing me to use his gym during those difficult years.
The pandemic affected my first season of high school football where we played only a few games, but I stayed focused on my goals. For my sophomore year I transferred to St. Joseph High School, a small Catholic private school. There, Coach Pepe took me under his wing and helped me grow both as a player and as a person. When others doubted me, he believed in me. His support meant a lot, and I will always be thankful for the confidence he showed in me.
My high school experience was a great one. I developed as an athlete and matured as an individual. Although I faced challenges at home, those experiences made me stronger and motivated me to keep moving forward.
After high school, I attended UC Davis. I was fortunate to be coached byCoach Plough, who taught me how to find joy not only in football but also in life. His guidance helped shape me into a better person, and I am grateful for the impact he had on me.
I always dreamed of playing at the next level. When I received an opportunity from Cal Berkeley, I was excited to visit and knew right away that it was where I wanted to be.
Since arriving at Berkeley, I have found a second family. My position coach, KB, has had a tremendous impact on my life. He cares about me as a person, not just as a football player. He has helped me grow both on and off the field, and I truly feel valued here.
I believe our team has incredible talent, diversity, and potential. We have a special group of players and coaches, and I know we are capable of accomplishing great things. I am excited about what lies ahead and believe this season has the potential to be one that people will remember for years to come.
To the fans who fill the stadium with energy and passion, thank you. It is truly an honor to represent Cal Berkeley and play in front of such incredible support.
Finally, and most importantly I thank God for the strength, faith, and determination he gives me every day. Through every challenge, every success, and every step of my journey, my faith has remained a guiding force in my life.
My story is still being written, and I am excited to see what comes next.
Related:
Cooper Perry, In His Words: Why I Chose Cal
AJ Tuitele, In His Words - Why I Chose Cal
