Alexander Senior Esteban Avena Commits to Texas State Track

Avena continues family's Division I legacy with Texas State commitment

Apr. 5, 2026 at 1:35pm

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Alexander senior Esteban Avena has committed to continue his track and field career at Division I Texas State University. Avena comes from a family of Division I athletes, as his older brother Sebastian currently runs track at the University of Texas at El Paso. Avena is a standout sprinter who holds several Laredo city records, including in the 400-meter dash and 4x100-meter relay.

Why it matters

Avena's commitment to Texas State continues his family's legacy of producing Division I athletes. His decision to stay in Texas and join the Bobcats' program, which is set to move to the Pac-12 Conference, reflects his strong connection to the local community and his belief in the future potential of the Texas State track and field team.

The details

Avena, who was the Border Olympics and District 30-6A champion in the 400-meter dash last year, has been impressed by the Texas State program and coaching staff. He visited the campus after being contacted by the Bobcats, who were impressed by his indoor times, including a ninth-place finish in the 400-meter dash at the Texas High School Indoor Championship. Avena's verbal commitment came shortly after that visit, as he was sold on Texas State's 'great program' and 'very bright future'.

  • Avena visited Texas State after being in contact with the coaching staff.
  • In January 2026, Avena ran a ninth-place time of 48.07 in the 400-meter dash at the Texas High School Indoor Championship.
  • Avena's verbal commitment to Texas State came shortly after his campus visit.

The players

Esteban Avena

A senior at Alexander High School in Laredo, Texas, who is a standout sprinter and has committed to continue his track and field career at Division I Texas State University.

Sebastian Avena

Esteban's older brother, who currently runs track at the University of Texas at El Paso, a Division I program.

Texas State University

A Division I university located in San Marcos, Texas, that competes in the Sun Belt Conference but will move to the Pac-12 Conference on July 1, 2026.

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What they’re saying

“I've really loved the program. I've always heard great things about the program and coaching.”

— Esteban Avena, Alexander Senior

“It's going to be great. I'm really excited about the future.”

— Esteban Avena, Alexander Senior

What’s next

Avena will officially sign his National Letter of Intent to join the Texas State track and field program in the coming months.

The takeaway

Esteban Avena's commitment to Texas State continues his family's legacy of producing Division I athletes, as his older brother Sebastian currently runs track at UTEP. Avena's decision reflects his strong connection to the local Laredo community and his belief in the future potential of the Bobcats' program, which is set to join the Pac-12 Conference.