At any school play, Catcher Sanchez can be seen standing in front of the stage and setting the tone. Catcher has been known for his consistent and powerful presence throughout his four years at San Mateo High, but his talents don’t end there.
You’ll find him every Friday at the Spirit Lawn leading a devout Tai Chi club and on Thursdays captaining the Improv club. He finds Tai Chi “an amazing way to share relaxation and mindfulness with my peers while strengthening a connection to my culture” and his experience in Improv as being “a huge honor for me, as [Improv Club] helped me find community and laughs when I was having a hard time freshman year.”
Beyond Catcher’s many accomplishments, he is of great character, always willing to lend a helping hand. Catcher offers his advice for younger students, “stop being insecure and embrace who you are he adds. “Admittedly, it is very much Disney Channel wisdom, but I think it is beyond valuable.”
When asked about his favorite moments on stage, Catcher replied, “Taking the final bow of my last musical at SMHS was deeply rewarding. Looking back on the love, effort, and time I had put into crafting performances on that stage was bittersweet. Still, it left me with immense pride in myself and everyone I have had the pleasure of working with.” Zaee Shah, a junior at SMHS who has been to many school plays, comments about Catcher’s stage presence, explaining that “he’s super expressive; in whatever role he’s in, Catcher always makes it special.”
Catcher has made many good memories in theater throughout the years, so when asked about his favorite play to perform, he said, “It is truly impossible to pick just one! Some highlights include ‘Anything Goes,’ ‘Crazy For You,’ and ‘Cabaret.’” He thanks the drama department: “I am eternally grateful to the drama department for giving me a home and family over the past four years. These are truly top-notch beautiful people I couldn’t forget even if I tried. If you have the time, try to get involved somehow.”
But Catcher’s importance to the school isn’t measured by how many characters he played or shows he headlined, but rather by his impact on his friends, peers, or teachers; Dominic Flores, a freshman in drama, described his character; “One thing I could say about Catcher is that he’s a great leader and his presence is enough to get everyone motivated. Many people know him for his skills on stage or in music, but I knew him as a good friend. Without him, I’d never have the courage to get on stage, [Catcher] is so special I guarantee I’ll tell my grandkids about him one day; that’s just how much of an impact he had on me.” I have to agree. I’m not in theater nor more than one club with him, but I can visibly tell the effect that he creates. From all of us at San Mateo, thank you, Catcher, and best of luck in college.