Week 5 of the high school football season is over and the San Ramon Valley Wolves, led by head coach Aaron Becker, pulled off a win against the Dublin Gaels by a score of 35-7, thanks in part to star two-way player, Tristan Sinclair.
Sinclair is a 6'2", 205 pound outside linebacker and running back for the Wolves, who has played on the varsity team since his sophomore year. The sky is the limit for this stellar senior as he has accepted a full-ride athletic scholarship to Stanford University.
Going into the game against the Gaels, Becker said, "We knew they were going to be a good test for us. They came off of a tough loss the week before and we were playing our first home game of the season, so we had to bring it." Looking at the matchup the Wolves were hoping to set the tone with a tough run game. "We thought we were going to be able to run the football effectively and get off to a good start," Becker recounted.
From the opening kickoff, it was visible that the Wolves were firing on all cylinders. "Our opening drive, we marched the ball down field and gained a good amount of confidence," Becker said. "Tristan took a screen pass 28-yards and we got in the end zone. Our defense came out just as strong, forcing a three and out."
Coming out of half-time, Becker was determined to keep the pedal to the metal. "We came out at the half like we were down," he said. "Everyone was ready to rally, especially Tristan. The first play on offense, he took a handoff 80-yards to the house. It felt like that was the nail in the coffin."
Sinclair finished the game with an exceptional 15 carries for 180-yards in addition to two receptions for 28 yards and one interception for 27 yards. He also tallied six tackles and two touchdowns.
When asked about Sinclair's leadership style, Becker said, "He is a real lead by example kind of guy. Over the years he has come a long way, learning how to be more vocal. But he gives you 100% effort on the field, in the weight room, and especially in the classroom. He has a strong desire for team success and doesn't put any individual accolades above the team."
Sinclair is clearly a well-rounded student-athlete, evidenced by the fact that he earned a full-ride scholarship to the academically rigorous, Stanford University. Tristan owns a 4.0 GPA and enjoys being involved in his school and community. "He is a leader on campus and really loves going to all sporting events," Becker said. "He has a passion for video and loves creating cool highlights for the basketball team or making creative content for school rallies." We are excited to nominate Sinclair as the Player of the Week and can't wait to see how the season turns out for #6!
As the home school of the 49ers High School Player of the Week presented by U.S. Bank, San Ramon Valley High School will receive a $500 grant for their football program from the 49ers Foundation. As part of this award, Sinclair will receive two tickets to a 49ers home game where he will be recognized on the field during pre-game. At the end of the season, Sinclair will be invited to the SAP Performance Facility to watch a closed practice where 49ers head coach, Kyle Shanahan, will officially present him with his award.
Congratulations, Tristan!
