Senior Duo Overcomes Obstacles

For Seniors Jose Marcelino and Tony Lugo, graduating from high school isn’t just a rite of passage, it’s proof that they overcame the odds. Both Cross Country stars had to adjust to new living arrangements as juniors, and are determined to not let their past become their future.

“We are set on proving everyone wrong when they said I wouldn’t be successful, and that he couldn’t raise me,” Lugo said referencing his brother and legal guardian, 24 year old, Patrick Lugo.

Lugo was dropped off with his grandparents when he was less than two years old. He had a close relationship with his Grandfather until his death, but fueled by resentment and hatred, he struggled to get along with his Grandmother.

“Everyone that was supposed to care for a young teen turned their back on me,” he said.

Without other options, and without any other close relationships, Tony moved to Krum with his brother, Patrick, a recent UNT graduate. Patrick knows the experiences Tony has been through and acknowledges that he has had every excuse to give up on his dreams and take the wrong road.

“He has strived to make himself better and has not used our rocky family background as an excuse,” Patrick said. “He has used it as motivation for him to strive on. Not many kids his age have endured what he has and still keep their head up while moving forward.”

Lugo considers former Laker Kobe Bryant a role model because of the hard work of the NBA player.

“He’s not my role model just because he was great, but because he pushed himself to be,” Lugo said.

Like Lugo, Jose Marcelino considers himself hardworking and fortunate. Marcelino moved to Krum his Freshman year and has excelled at Cross Country and Track, as well as the classroom.

“ I have always excelled in school because I am a hard worker and I want to succeed at everything I do,” he said. “I consider myself a hard working athlete and I’m constantly getting faster.”

Marcelino and his brother Diego were adopted in May of 2015 by a family in Krum.

“It has forever changed my life,” he said. “We have shared many great experiences and I feel blessed to be where I am.”

Jose’s adopted mom, Sarah Henderson, is a very dedicated guardian who feverishly supports Jose during Cross Country and Track Meets.

“Jose, in my opinion, is unlike any other teenager I have come in contact with,” Henderson said. “Never once have I heard him complain about anything.”

She acknowledged his work ethic and his desire to do well. And despite the circumstances that Jose endured, Henderson said he remained steadfast and even keel.

“His drive to succeed is immeasurable,” Henderson continued. “Jose is one of the most resilient individuals I know with all that he has been through.”

Coach Clay coaches both Bobcats in Cross Country, and also coaches Tony in basketball.

“Both of them are extremely hard workers who want to succeed,” Clay said. “Jose is quiet, while Tony is outspoken. But both have become leaders in their own way.”

Overcoming obstacles is difficult, but sometimes all someone needs is an opportunity, and a desire.

“My dad took in boys that needed someplace to stay,” Coach Clay said. “He always said ‘kids need to be loved, and have the opportunity to succeed.’ After that, it’s up to the individual to do take advantage.”

Henderson gave Jose that opportunity to be successful by providing him a home and a family.

“He is a kindhearted, forgiving, patient and above all a quiet source of strength,” Henderson said. “I am very proud of him and know that his future is bright.

Patrick Lugo feels the same towards his brother.

“I am very proud to be his brother and I know great things await him in the future,” he said.