The rise of Johan Camacho at Bowie High School in south El Paso should really come as no surprise.
His older brother, Juan, was a three-sport standout at Bowie: football, basketball and baseball. He now plays football for UTEP as an offensive lineman. His father, Juan Camacho Sr., is an assistant football coach and head baseball coach at Bowie.
The younger Camacho has followed suit, playing football, basketball and baseball for the Class 4A Bears, helping all three programs to the state playoffs last year.
“Being here in Bowie means a lot to me,” Camacho said. “I get to be around my dad and learn from him. My brother is someone who inspires me. He’s worked hard to get to the next level in our hometown. He pushes me to be better.”
Camacho will be in his third year with the varsity program. Last year, Camacho, who played defensive end and tight end, helped the Bears to the District 1-4A, Division 1 playoffs with 34 tackles, two sacks, a defensive score and 180 receiving yards as a tight end.
This season, the 6’4″ Camacho wants to play as a receiver and has lost 20 pounds to 215 pounds.
“I’m looking forward to this season,” he said. “I feel like I’m getting better as an all-around player, but there’s still a lot of work to do.”
Bears head coach Andy Vale has witnessed Camacho’s development and work ethic.
“Johan is a leader in our program,” said Vale. “He works hard every day and has made great strides in his career.”
Camacho’s teammate Joe Rodriguez added: “He invests time every day to get better. Johan is a great teammate for our team.”
Camacho’s father Juan said his son likes to learn from the people around him, especially his brother.
“Johan loves competition and he always listens carefully to his brother,” said the father. “He is in constant contact with his brother and follows his advice. Johan works hard, he has a passion for the sport and you can see how much he has improved over the years.”
“I am proud of him and doors will open for him at the next level, no matter what sport he chooses.”
More: HS football news What does it look like for El Paso’s soccer teams after the UIL realignment?
Felix F. Chavez can be reached at [email protected]; @Fchavezeptimes on X
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