More to Gute Than Meets the Eye

NORMAN, Okla. -- Most know Jacob Gutierrez as the running back who wears number 21 for the Oklahoma Sooners. At 5-6, some may question his effectiveness on a football field full of massive bodies. However, there's much more to Gutierrez than meets the eye, both on and off the field.

With his career totals of 94 carries for 473 yards heading into the 2007 season, Gutierrez shows the ability to contribute to a backfield that is considered among the best in the nation. The 187-pound senior has his focus on contributing to the Sooners on the field this fall, and making significant contributions off the field when he can.

At a young age, Gutierrez (or "Gute" to his friends) has learned about leverage. He takes advantage of his position on the Oklahoma football team by helping out in the community.

"Football can be more than just scoring touchdowns and gaining yards," Gutierrez said. "It can be a tool for helping people."

Student-athletes have full schedules and busy lives. There are many demands including attending classes, practices, meetings, treatments and other activities, in addition to the competition of an intercollegiate sport. Even with his time-consuming schedule outside the classroom, Gutierrez has managed to miss only one day of class in his four-plus years at the University of Oklahoma.

Aside from football and his studies, Gutierrez is willing to volunteer at any institution that will have him. He especially loves to work with the kids of Norman's middle schools. He spends at least one day a week at each school participating and attending various activities. Gutierrez also attends every extracurricular activity that he is able to.

"Kids are so impressionable," said Gutierrez. "I enjoy being able to position myself to be a positive role model for these kids. If they see me volunteering everywhere, when they get in a position like mine in the future, maybe they will enjoy volunteering in the community as much as I do."

Throughout his time here, Gutierrez has had his chances to move on to other schools that offered him the allure of more playing time and better exposure. But the relationships that Gutierrez has developed with the kids in the Norman community prove more important than any amount of playing time.

"Although I may not see as much of the field as most players would like, I realize that I was here for a reason," said Gutierrez. "That is why I participate in everything that I can in the community. That is the reason I'm still here."

Attention from others may have flattered him, but substance is more important. Gutierrez believes that he should stick with his commitment to his team and his community.

"I realize that I can be here for more than just football. If football doesn't work out, then I won't be too broken up about it," said Gutierrez. "I can go and do other things with my life."

Gutierrez has never been one to seek out praise for his good deeds. But in 2006, someone else recognized his accomplishments and honored him for them.

Gutierrez was one of six finalists for the Coach Wooden Cup Award, which is a citizen's award presented by Athletes for a Better World. This award is presented to the athletes who best display teamwork, character, and citizenship throughout the duration of their season both on and off the field. These are the attributes that the ABW views as essential to enhance individuals, sports, and society.

"It was a great honor to be recognized," said Gutierrez. "I have never been one to do anything for recognition, but it is nice when an organization like that takes the time to recognize student-athletes in the community."

His teammates also recognize his hard work and off field leadership. They showed that when they elected Gutierrez as one of five team captains for 2007 season.

"Gute is one of the greatest guys I have ever met," said teammate DeMarco Murray. "All he brings is love, both on and off the field. He is a hard worker who knows how to keep people motivated and focused on the goal at hand."

Ask anyone on the Sooner roster and the answer is the same. Gutierrez treats everyone the same, regardless of position. If you're a walk-on freshman or a scholarship senior, he shows everyone the same respect. His faith is at the center of his life style and it is apparent in his everyday life.

"He leads all of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes meetings after practice, and he is someone that anyone can talk to," said Murray. "He loves God and is a guy who helps everyone on the team through the tough times."

Gutierrez is a great example of a true student-athlete, friend and mentor who sets an example for athletes for years to come. He proves to everyone that there is more than meets the eye with this "undersized" running back.

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By Ryan Kasmiersky | OU Athletics Media Relations

University of Oklahoma Athletics

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