Speedy Stan Zwinggi is a solid contributor to Texas States ground attack
Stan Zwinggi may not necessarily be someone you will hear about on ESPN but you can bet Texas State fans are well aware of who he is and what he does for the Bobcat football team.
A running back with great speed and the power to make sure an opposing defense remembers his number; Zwinggi knows how to work within the confines of the Bobcat's offense and understands his role very well. One of several backs used by head coach Brad Wright, Zwinggi makes the most of his opportunities as evident by his 5.8 yards-per-carry average this season.
Zwinggi seems to be picking up steam as the season continues. In game two against SMU he racked up 56 yards on just 7 carries for an 8.0 yards-per-carry average before coming back in week three to total 111 yards on 16 carries against Northern Colorado.
In his first year he showed why Texas State wanted him to become a Bobcat when he carried the ball six times for 87 yards, including a 54-yard touchdown run, against Oklahoma Panhandle State. So this is by no means a coming out year for Zwinggi and the Bobcats coaching staff knows what they can expect from the senior.
When asked about when he realized he had blazing speed and the ability to outrun defenders, Zwinggi reflects back to his first experiences with football, "I guess it started in flag football back in third grade, every since flag football I was a really the fast guy and I guess I caught on to sports there," he said.
Speed is something many athletes have but just about any coach or athlete will tell you it takes more than that to succeed. Determination is one thing that comes to mind and it always seems to be synonymous with success. In Zwinggi's case he seemed to understand that early on and it became part of who he was. "I came from a catholic middle school and I was looked at as an underdog coming to a public school," he said. "Everywhere I go it kind of starts out like that."
Despite a high school career at Fredericksburg that included being named First-Team All -District in 27-4A, rushing for more than 2,000 yards and 24 touchdowns in a single season, and being selected to play in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl, Zwinggi still had more to prove when he arrived at Texas State. "In college I came in and no one thought I could be a running back so I was put at receiver," he said. "I eventually made my way back to running back and here I am today."
Giving credit to the coaches that have invested time in him is something Zwinggi is quick to do as he reflects on his development as an athlete, "My coaches played a big role, I have known them ever since I was growing up and they are still good family friends." Now as a senior he sees himself as someone that is in a position to give back to the game and do his part with the younger players. "I have noticed some of the younger guys look up to me and I feel like I need to do my best and set an example," he said. "It is part of the senior leadership."
As a senior there is always some reflection, but not only reflection, it is time to look ahead and see what the future may hold and what new challenges and goals are on the horizon. When asked about his career at Texas State and what memory stands out Zwinggi proudly mentions an outstanding touchdown run, "I guess last season taking it 92-yards for a touchdown - that was pretty cool." "Yeah, I guess that would be my best moment."
Zwinggi mentions his dream of playing in the NFL but he understands that life may hold other things in store for him. "Well I graduate in May I am just going to see what comes up," Zwinggi explains as he confidently looks to the future. "I am definitely looking forward."
We enjoy football as fans but there is much more to the game than scoring points. Athletes grow as people, learn to become quality individuals, and through their experiences become leaders. With Zwinggi this process is evident and it reminds us that hard work builds character. When asked how athletics has changed him Zwinggi is quick to point out some things he has enjoyed in his personal growth, "It has kept me in line with time management and responsibility." "I think it is good for anyone to go through because it gives you some responsibility."
Understanding that kids look up to him and other athletes, Zwinggi points out what is important for younger athletes to understand, "Do your best at everything from special teams to whatever your job is." "You need to play your roll and you aren't going to be the star right off the bat, you got to work your way up."
Zwinggi never lost sight of the fact that hard work is always key and he reminds youth of that, "Nothing comes easy, I have had to earn everything and that has made me what I am." Solid advice from an outstanding athlete and quality person who understands the rewards of hard work, dedication, and responsibility.
