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THE FRESHMAN: Texas-commit Cantu set to represent LSA Baseball
With incredible talent being scouted years before they graduate high school, it’s becoming more evident that Division I college prospects are discovered at a younger age.
This happens to be the case for Lutheran South Academy's Marcus Canut -- a super-freshman with amazing talent.
Cantu stepped up big-time in his first season as the Pioneers’ quarterback, leading the team to a playoff berth while also earning first-team, all-district honors, the District's Freshman of the Year and award and LSA Offensive MVP honors.
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“I’ve been playing football since I was seven years old and I’ve always loved the game and have had fun with my friends,” said Cantu. “I really enjoyed my first year on varsity playing with a good group of guys. It’s truly a blessing to have been recognized as the Offensive MVP -- especially as a freshman.”
Considering that Cantu had a tremendous first season at LSA, it might come as a surprise that football isn’t even his primary sport.
Cantu, 15, happens to be a top-tier baseball player, playing multiple positions (SS/2B/OF) for the USA 15U (15 and up) National Team. He’s been honing his talents from a young age.
“Ever since I was five years old, I’ve been playing with kids one to two years older than me,” Cantu said. “By doing this, I was challenged daily to play at my very best in order to compete with more experienced players. I’ve also dedicated tons of extra hours of hard work, improving and refining all my skills. Most importantly, God has blessed me with great athleticism and talent.”
His proficiency beyond his years has allowed the young man the opportunity to be scouted by college recruiters. Due to this, Cantu has already committed to the University of Texas, ahead of his freshmen season of LSA baseball.
Photo acquired via Cantu's Twitter: @marcuscantu2026
“At the end of last summer, I received an invitation from [The University of] Texas to attend an elite-level workout camp in August (2022) where I competed against other top prospects. I did very well,” said Cantu. “It was after this camp that I received the official offer from Texas. UT has the best baseball program and coaching staff in the country. They’ve won six National Championships and 38 College World Series appearances. I’ve gotten offers from other schools, but Texas was clearly my top choice since UT is my dream school.”
Cantu has been working for this opportunity his whole life, and his family has been backing him along the way.
“My biggest inspiration is my dad,” Cantu said. “He works so hard helping me with my game and giving me every opportunity that he can to help me succeed. My dad helps push me to be better and keeps me accountable with high standards, while also encouraging me and being a great role model.”
While baseball season is nearly upon us, Cantu is ready to represent the green and white.
“My focus through high school and summer travel baseball will be to continue to develop my skills,” said Cantu. “I want to keep getting better in every aspect of the game so I can be fully prepared when I arrive at Texas and make an impact as a freshman. I want to contribute to the success of the team in any way I can.”
Keep watching the generational talent that is Marcus Cantu. He might just be playing in the "Bigs" one day.
THE PLAYMAKERS; Legends of the Fall powered by UTMB Health
The Houston area is loaded with talented athletes, who give it their all on their respective fields of play.
Welcome to the VYPE Playmakers, powered by UTMB Health, where we highlight five standouts who stole the headlines in the fall or will make news this winter. Here are the UTMB Athletes of the Fall.
Anthony Sury, Brazoswood, Water Polo
Anthony Sury being awarded the UIL Conference 6A MVP Award
Photo acquired via Twitter @TheWetWood
Brazoswood High School claimed the first-ever UIL State Championship in Water Polo, which was achieved, in no small part, due to the efforts of senior Anthony Sury. Following his outstanding performance during the regular season and state playoff, he was named the Conference 6A MVP with 6 goals.
Jonah Williams, Galveston Ball, Football
Photo acquired via Twitter @JonahW409
Galveston Ball’s defense was powered by the ball-hawking ability of sophomore DB Jonah Williams, ushering them to an undefeated District Championship season. Following his second year for the Tornadoes, in which, he became the District 9-5A MVP, Williams’ potential will only increase. College offers are sure to start rolling in, come next Fall.
Nadi'ya Shelby, Friendswood, Volleyball
Photo acquired via Twitter @nadiyashelby
Friendswood’s impressive volleyball team, which advanced to the Regional Quarterfinals this Fall, was bolstered by the performance of freshman OH Nadi’ya Shelby, earning her District 18-5A Newcomer of the Year honors. With numerous players graduating this year, Friendswood can remain optimistic, heading into next season, as Shelby will be a team leader for years to come.
Maxwell Williams, Clear Falls, Football
Photo acquired via Twitter @max_williams22
Clear Falls had themselves a star on their roster, becoming District Champs, with Williams making impacts on all three phases of the game, by playing Safety, WR, and Kick/Punt-Returner. Williams’ senior year efforts unanimously earned him District 24-6A MVP, as well as First-Team All-District, and First-Team All-Galveston defensive and utility player honors. His football career will continue, following his commitment to the US Naval Academy.
Marcus Cantu, Lutheran South Academy, Football
Lutheran South Academy is enjoying the talent of their young multi-athlete star, Marcus Cantu. During his freshman campaign, the young QB led the team to a playoff berth and earned Offensive MVP honors. Furthermore, Cantu’s athleticism is being recognized, considering he is already committed to play baseball for the University of Texas, once he graduates in 2026.
Our specialists recognize the importance of being able to maintain an active lifestyle and whether you’re looking to address a joint injury, receive prompt treatment for a concussion, or simply improve your overall athletic performance, UTMB Health Orthopedics Sports Medicine is here to help.