I want to thank The Star-News, especially sports editor Phillip Brents. The article and tribute he wrote recognizing our beloved friend Ringo Leomiti was well deserved. History has recorded that #77 Ringo Leomiti in 1983-84 led the,Sweetwater Red Devil football team to the San Diego CIF 3A Football Championship, was voted San Diego County CIF Defensive Player of the year and the Sweetwater Red Devils would re- write the San Diego Section CIF record books with three all-time records that have remained unbeaten and still remain #1 for the last 36 years. These records are:
•Most shutouts (season) 9
•Fewest points allowed (season) 27
•Most consecutive wins 36.
Ringo was the captain and had a entire defense that would dominate every team that season. Í would be remiss if I did not mention a defense that included two first team All CIF teammates that were instrumental in the teams storybook season #28 Rolondo “Coz” Jarin and #41 Ronnie Cortell. History has recorded, Ringo Leomiti the greatest middle linebacker in the history of Sweetwater Red Devil Football.
We the Sweetwater class of 1984 salute The Star-News for it’s commitment and stories that you bring every week. I was taught early on when someone does something for you to acknowledge and thank that person for what they done. Thank you Star-News.
The legacy Ringo Leomiti left all of us is that family is the most important thing in life and Ringo proved that with his wife Rhonda, children and with his Suhi football family. The good Lord does not make mistakes and we were blessed with our friend,classmate Ringo Leomiti.
And when people come to Sweetwater High School’s Gail Devers stadium to play on that field they will always know the legacy and the impact that #77 Ringo Leomiti left for future Red Devils and how he truly brought out the best in you.
That’s the legacy that will always remain. Ringo Leomiti the stars are for the sky and every night you will keep that lamp glowing bright at Sweetwater High School. We love you and you will never be forgotten. This is dedicated to Rhonda Leomiti and the all the Leomiti children.
Mark Baca resides in National City.
