'Wizard’ wrestling coach wants to be positive influence
In addition to his responsibilities as a campus monitor, Jaime Cruz took on the role of an assistant coach for the Manteca High junior varsity wrestling team, and he is currently in his second year of coaching. (Moises Ramos/The Tower)
By BRYAN JIMENEZ
The Tower
Meet Jaime Cruz, a devoted man who has been serving Manteca High School as a well-known campus monitor for the past five years.
He serves a crucial role in providing safety and maintaining order throughout the school campus. The Turlock High graduate has spent a career working in education, The job accommodates his schedule, allowing him to balance work and family life, particularly for his children.
In addition to his responsibilities as a campus monitor, Cruz took on the role of an assistant coach for the Manteca High junior varsity wrestling team, and he is currently in his second year of coaching.
Cruz aims to make a positive impact on the students and school administrators. With a focus of maintaining a safe environment and having positive connections with students and administrators, Cruz stands out as an influential figure for the students at Manteca High School.
In addition to his responsibilities as a campus monitor, Jaime Cruz took on the role of an assistant coach for the Manteca High junior varsity wrestling team, and he is currently in his second year of coaching. (Moises Ramos/The Tower)
“I hope to be a positive influence on all the little buffaloes – go Buffs,” Cruz said. “You know, I try to think about who has helped me as a child and I thrive to be to be that very person.”
In high school, there was a lack of opportunity for Cruz to play sports. Despite this, he developed an interest in the art of Jiu-Jitsu outside of school. During this period, it was recognized as a unique sport and almost like being a “wizard.”
He got his position of assistant coach for the JV wrestling team after receiving an offer from head coach Vince Bordi. He possessed the ability of an assistant coach – determined and disciplined.
“After school, I got into Jiu-Jitsu for a while when it was brand new, and back then knowing Jui-Jitsu was like being a wizard, like being able to do magic,” Cruz said. “Right now, everybody knows a little bit of Jui-Jitsu but back in 2002, it was cool being able to know that stuff.”
Cruz began his career as a yard duty and campus monitor at a junior high school, and upon spotting a job opening at Manteca High School, he quickly took the opportunity as he realized his suitability for the role. His new job was like his previous one but with more hours while maintaining the same schedule. It allowed him to spend time with his family, especially his children.
“What I love about Manteca High School is mostly the kids, but beyond them,” Cruz said. “The admins – 100 percent without a doubt – God bless the admins.”