He may have greeted you and helped keep your Mazda in perfect running condition, but Damian Escobedo (Service Advisor at Tustin Mazda) puts on a different hat several days a week. Damian coaches the 8u Punishers Football Team, a power house of kids and families in the West San Gabriel Valley area. Seen here in a photo with his little brother Tristen, Damian brings in stories and photos, following most weekends, that he shares with several of us enthusiasts around the dealership. This week was no exception.

Recently Tustin Mazda was proud to make a donation which the Punishers turned in to something very special. The donation was used to buy special jerseys for October games, during Breast Cancer Awareness month. These pink jerseys (yes, we know it’s a football team, so wait for it) are printed across the back, with the names of player's grandmothers, moms, aunts etc. who have battled breast cancer. The boys are becoming aware, at an early age, of both the devastation and more importantly the support needed, for such causes. While pink may not be as intimidating as the Punishers name, it’s a powerful message that families on both sides of the ball appreciate and respect.

If you’d like to catch the action yourself, reach out to Damian at Tustin Mazda Service Department or check out the schedule on the Punishers Facebook Page. And after the game you can usually find some good food and conversation at the local Wing Stop at 756 E. Arrow Hwy, Pomona, CA, in Covina where the team and families get together. Games are at North View High School on Saturdays. But check the schedule for times and away games or friend the Punishers on Facebook.

Go Punishers!
- Your pals at OC AutoTeam