Santa Rosa's Rodriguez honored with Marine Corps award

Julio Rodriguez Jr., a senior at Santa Rosa Academy, was recently honored as a 2020 Semper Fidelis All-American by the U.S. Marine Corps.

In its fourth year, the program honors approximately 100 student athletes based on their athletic prowess, academic success, and embodiment of the Marine Corps values of honor, courage and commitment, according to a news release from the program.

“The award program recognizes students who face life’s battles with the conviction and determination to succeed,” according to a news release from the school.

“Semper Fidelis All-Americans are purpose-driven and embody the same fighting spirit shared by United States Marines. They overcome challenges while succeeding academically, continuously strive to better their communities, and excel in athletics and extracurricular activities,” the news release stated.

Rodriguez is a member of the Santa Rosa wrestling team, which qualified for the CIF postseason in his first year with the team.

“He is happy wrestling at SRA has given him a positive experience and allowed him to work on his mental and physical health as well. He says that Santa Rosa Academy is an inviting and comfortable school to attend,” according to the news release.

Each All-American was given the opportunity to invite a mentor of their choosing to join them in the program. Rodriguez chose Miguel Mejia, due to the impact he has had in helping Rodriguez achieve the honor.