New Kofa AD has deep Yuma roots

Aside from the large day planner hanging on one wall, Marci Rodriguez's office was essentially bare. Kofa's new athletic director has only been on the job for a couple of weeks, but she's no stranger to the local sports scene.

Rodriguez is a lifetime veteran of Yuma's longest-standing prep rivalry, but she started out on the other side of the fence.

“I went to Yuma High — I'm definitely a Criminal,” Rodriguez said, laughing. “I come from a family full of Criminals.”

She's a bright 37-year-old with a beaming personality and she's taking over for Frank Garcia, who now works with the school's activity department. From Garcia to students to parents to fellow faculty, Rodriguez said everyone's extended themselves to make her feel more comfortable. While admitting it's ironic that she works for the Kings, Rodriguez said she's ready to take the next step in her professional career.

“I've always had education in my back pocket,” Rodriguez said. “It's in my blood — the education part of it. Now to be on the administration side of things, I'm just trying to soak it all in. It's come full circle.”

But she's doing her research. Rodriguez said she's read a historical book of the school, noting Kofa derives from the King of Arizona mining company, a once powerful local institution.

For the last four years, Rodriguez taught at San Luis High School and was the physical education department chair. Before that, Rodriguez spent five years teaching in Temecula, Calif. She reluctantly admitted to being a Los Angeles Angels fan during her time in Temecula, but said she's 100 percent behind the Cardinals, Diamondbacks and Suns now.

“The special thing is that I'm from this area,” Rodriguez said. “I played sports from ages 6-18 and then played at (Arizona Western College) and the one thing that's stayed true is the passion with these coaches and their kids. ... I'm just grateful to be here.”

Growing up, Rodriguez played soccer, volleyball and softball. She played softball at AWC and has since coached the sport, calling it the one she has the most passion for.

Rodriguez knows the slow, crawling nature of summer is on the verge of ending, as students will soon be filling up the office for fall sports registration. But she's looking forward to the next chapter of her life.

“My main goal is something that has already been established here: At the end of the day, we're here to service the students,” Rodriguez said. “It's something I really believe in. And if I am really passionate about something, I'm going to give it 150 percent. We owe it to these students.”