Washington Keeps Spirits Alive

LANCASTER — Note to whoever’s in charge of class rings at Paraclete High: make Michael Washington’s big enough to fit his thumb.

All his fingers might be occupied with Southern Section championship rings.

Washington is two victories away from becoming the first football player in region history to play on four section champions.

“That’s what makes me play harder,” said Washington. “I want that fourth one more than anything.”

No. 2-seeded Paraclete hosts Kern Valley tonight at Antelope Valley College in a Division XII semifinal and would likely meet No. 1 Montclair Prep next week for the title.

If the Spirits (11-1) fall short, it won’t be from a lack of effort on Washington’s part.

The 6-foot-3, 205-pound senior does everything but wash the team’s uniforms.

He led the Alpha League in interceptions with nine and in punting, leads Paraclete in receiving and kick returns, and could become a 1,000-yard rusher.

Washington also plays on the conversion and kickoff-coverage teams, leaving little time for rest.

“He’s an all-around stud,” said quarterback Craig Herrera. “Wherever you put him on the field, he’s super. With his power, size and speed, he just looks like a man among boys.”

Washington, a soft-spoken 18-year-old who looks closer to 25, downplays his individual accomplishments, always putting team goals first.

The Spirits are 48-6 since he joined the varsity as a freshman.

“I might never come off the field,” he said. “But that’s the way I like it. I hate just sitting there and not contributing to our team.”

That’s what made last season so frustrating.

Washington began the season ranked by The Times as the region’s best defensive back, but he suffered a concussion in Paraclete’s second game and missed parts of four games.

“I was happy that the team won, which is always the first goal,” he said, “but I had a horrible season and didn’t feel like I got anything accomplished.”

A sub-standard junior season hasn’t scared off college recruiters.

Oregon, Utah State, Hawaii and Colorado State are among his suitors, although Washington awaits results of his SAT and ACT tests, which will determine his college eligibility.

First-year Coach Jeff Cortez says Washington has been his most valuable player.

“He’s an inspiration to a lot of our guys,” Cortez said. “He’s a veteran and has been at it for four years. He’s seen it all and done it all.”

But there is unfinished business.

Washington would like to help Paraclete become only the second team in section history to capture four consecutive titles. Temple City won 2-A Division championships from 1970-73.

Washington also hopes to become the Spirits’ third 1,000-yard rusher this season, following Curtis Brown (1,593 yards) and Erick Jackson (994). Washington has 852 yards rushing.

If that doesn’t happen, however, Washington won’t lose sleep.

“It’s not my first concern,” he said. “I just want to help the team win another championship.”

Michael Washington, four-time champion.

It has a ring to it.

(BEGIN TEXT OF INFOBOX / INFOGRAPHIC)

MICHAEL WASHINGTON’S ALL-PURPOSE YARDS

Rushing: 852

Receiving: 443

Interception returns: 345

Punt returns: 108

Kickoff returns: 158

Total: 1,906 yards

* HIGH SCHOOL PIGSKIN PROPHECIES ON PAGE 14