Leading the Herd: Kyrin’s Journey from Teammate to Leader

BY JAHLEI-AH SMITH 
The Tower 

Under the bright Friday night lights, Manteca High senior Kyrin Barajas anchors the Buffalo defense with power, speed, and purpose.  

As a linebacker, team captain, and Herd Shep, he has earned the respect of teammates and coaches alike not only for his talent, but for his voice and example. 

For Barajas, football is more than a game. It is an opportunity to lead, inspire, and represent Manteca with pride. Now in his senior season, he is balancing the responsibility of guiding his team, preparing for college, and carrying on a legacy built on hard work and unity. 

Being chosen as the Herd Shep is one of Barajas’ proudest achievements. The title represents the heart of Manteca’s football culture discipline, teamwork, and leadership. 

“It means a lot it’s a big legacy to carry throughout this program,” Barajas said. “Even though the Herd Shep means I am the team captain, there are multiple people on this team who can lead. We all share that role together. The Herd Shep is just a stick to me it is not just about one person. Everyone on this team could lead.” 

Barajas believes leadership is a shared effort. 

“I do consider myself a leader on defense,” he said. “But honestly, everyone takes responsibility for their actions. I just try to keep everyone in a good mindset. We motivate each other and go over pregame together.” 

Barajas defensive style reflects the Buffalo identity: fast, physical, and relentless. 

“My style would definitely be hard-hitting, fast, and physical,” Barajas said. “But that goes for the rest of the defense too without them, I cannot do my job. We are fast, physical, and hard-hitting as a unit.” 

He thrives as a linebacker, a position that demands intelligence and intensity. 

“Linebacker is definitely my favorite position,” Barajas said. “Especially in Coach James’ defense every week we have a different job or assignment. It never gets boring because there is always something new.” 

His coaches see the results of that mindset each week. 

“He’s a ball hawk always making big plays,” said coach Mark Varnum. “He had a huge game against Lincoln and made some good plays against Central Catholic. Every game, I expect him to make even better plays, and so far, so good.” 

Barajas leadership shows up in how he practices and carries himself. 

“He’s a leader,” Coach Varnum said. “Kyrin wants to be great he sets the example with how he practices, how he plays, and his hair is obviously phenomenal.” 

That consistency has shaped the culture of defense. 

Senior teammate Quinn Martinez said Kyrin’s presence elevates everyone around him. 

“He’s just all around a great linebacker,” Quinn said. “In my opinion, probably the best linebacker in the section. He is a leader on defense. We all look up to him, and he is always making sure we are in the right spot.” 

The two have built a bond rooted in accountability and respect. 

“We definitely support each other a lot,” Martinez added. “If I make a mistake, he will let me know what I can do better and I do the same for him. He keeps us accountable for our actions. At the end of the day, we just make each other better.” 

As Kyrin’s high school career winds down, the next step is choosing the right college program. He has 4 offers from Kentucky Christian University, Capital University, Lewis & Clark, Pacific University,  

“It’s mainly the coaches and the environment of the program,” he said. “I want to be around staff that believes in me and trusts my development. Also, the players, the facilities, and the program overall matter a lot to me.” 

That thoughtful approach mirrors how Barajas plays with focus, passion, and purpose. 

“He’s a ball hawk always making big plays.” Coach Varnum 
“Probably the best linebacker in the section.” Quinn Martinez 
“To me, being part of this team means more than just winning games it’s about building something together, holding each other accountable, and representing Manteca with pride.”  Said Barajas 

His leadership, and defense from a freshman finding his footing to a senior captain leading by example, Kyrin’s story is one of growth, grit, and gratitude. Through the Herd Shep program, his voice on defense, and the respect of his coaches and teammates, he is leaving behind a legacy that will outlast his time on the field. As he prepares for the next chapter, one thing is clear wherever Kyrin goes, leadership follows.