Diego Betancourt, a safety for the Fresno City College Rams, is a football player whose passion for the sport runs deep, shaped by his family and a lifelong dedication to the game.
Born in Germany and raised in various locations due to his father’s military career, Betancourt eventually settled in Hawaii, where his love for football took root. His journey has been one of perseverance, growth, and commitment, both on and off the field.
Betancourt’s upbringing was heavily influenced by his father, who hails from a small island in Puerto Rico and played football at West Virginia University. Football was always present in the Betancourt household, serving as a way to stay active and connected.
“It’s always been a hard dedication for our family,” Betancourt said.
His father not only introduced him to the game but also coached him, becoming a lifelong mentor both in football and in life.
Though he dabbled in other sports like basketball, Betancourt knew early on that football was his true calling. He began playing in fifth grade, starting as a quarterback in flag football before transitioning to receiver and defensive back in tackle football.
“I didn’t want to take the hits,” Betancourt said. But it was in the safety position that he eventually found his true place on the field.
After high school at James Campbell in Hawaii, Betancourt attended the University of Hawaii for a semester before making the life-changing decision to move to Fresno and join the Rams. It wasn’t an easy transition.
“I started off timid and scared,” Betancourt said, as he reflected on the challenges of living away from his family for the first time.
However, the sense of brotherhood and camaraderie he found with the Rams helped him adjust and thrive.
“Once we got pretty close, it was a good time,” Betancourt said.
The team’s environment was one of the main factors that drew Betancourt to FCC. He noticed how the team had grown closer, both on and off the field, since his arrival, and this sense of unity continues to motivate him as he pursues his goals.
Like many athletes, Betancourt’s path has not been without obstacles. Injuries have been a significant challenge, and the COVID-19 pandemic further limited his playing time during his high school years in Hawaii. Despite these setbacks, Betancourt has remained focused on his goals, trusting the process and maintaining a strong work ethic.
“You’ve got to work for everything you get,” Betancourt said.
One of the most significant challenges Betancourt faced was during his brief time at the University of Hawaii. He was put in a position he wasn’t comfortable with, which eventually led to him being released from the team. However, this experience only strengthened his resolve to prove himself and achieve his dreams.
“It showed me a lot of who I am and what I want to represent,” he said.
Betancourt’s motivation to keep pushing forward comes from his family, friends, and teammates. His girlfriend has been a constant source of support, and he knows he’ll see a familiar face in the stands or on the sideline, cheering him on. This support system, combined with his inner drive, fuels his ambitions both on and off the field.
In the short term, Betancourt’s goal is to finish the season with no regrets, aiming for personal success and contributing to the team’s efforts. Long-term, he hopes to earn a scholarship and continue playing football at a higher level.
“I’m really open to anything,” Betancourt said.
One dream college on his radar is San Diego State University, a school his father attended for graduate studies. Betancourt has heard great things about the culture there and would love the chance to follow in his father’s footsteps. Beyond any specific team or program, his focus remains on continuing his football career and expanding his education.
For Betancourt, football is more than just a game—it’s a way of life. “You wake up, you’ve got football on your mind,” Betancourt said.
Throughout his day, whether he’s in class or hanging out with friends, football remains at the forefront of his thoughts. The sport has taught him valuable life lessons about dedication, focus, and seizing opportunities.
Off the field, Betancourt stays grounded by spending time with his dog, cooking, and enjoying everyday life. He’s also part of a small community of local boys from Hawaii who have found their way to Fresno, and together they maintain their connection to home.
Betancourt’s journey is far from over, and he has big goals in sight. He hopes to earn All-American honors by the end of the season and be recognized for his talents on the field. Off the field, he’s focused on keeping his grades up and finishing his time at FCC with a high GPA.
Betancourt encourages others to take advantage of every opportunity, live without regrets, and stay true to their goals, no matter how difficult the journey may be.
“Keep following your dreams. At the end of the day, it’s what you’re going to regret if you don’t try.”
