BELVIDERE, Ill. (WTVO) — A high school football player in Belvidere is being recognized not only for his play on the gridiron, but his impact off of it.

Belvidere High School senior Juan Cervantes says football means so much to him.

"It's real personal," he said. "I love the boys I'm around. This locker bay right here, it's a mini family in a bigger family that I'm already in. It's amazing to just be around teammates that care about the game as much as I do."

Cervantes wears number 8 with pride, pulling double duty serving as a running back and linebacker under the lights.

He's getting recognition for his play and his character. He has two new prized possessions. One is a football with his name and the other a plaque with the same, as he was honored with the Latino Heritage Youth Leade

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