Las Vegas, New Mexico - The New Mexico Highlands University community is deeply saddened to share the passing of Sal Gonzales - a celebrated alumnus, former assistant coach, and a legendary figure in New Mexico athletics. After a courageous battle with cancer, Sal passed away Tuesday, April 13th, leaving behind a profound legacy that spans the trails, the classroom, and the hearts of his family.
A Legacy Continued: The Gonzales Family
While Sal's professional accolades are many, his greatest pride was his family. A devoted husband and father, Sal's influence as a mentor began at home. The deep bond he shared with his family was perhaps most visible through his son, Gabriel Gonzales, who followed in his father's footsteps to compete as a cross country runner for New Mexico Highlands. Seeing Gabriel wear the same purple and white singlet Sal once wore was a source of immense pride, solidifying the Gonzales name as a multi-generational part of the HU cross-country program.
A Diamond in the Rough
Sal's own journey at Highlands began in 1993. A graduate of Pecos High School, he arrived in Las Vegas on a cross-country scholarship. Coach
Bob DeVries often described Sal as a "diamond in the rough" - an athlete who transformed himself through a relentless commitment to his craft. He was a true student of the sport, a trait that eventually led him to serve as a graduate assistant at NMHU, where he helped shape the next generation of runners while earning his degree.
A Career of Championship Excellence
Sal took the lessons learned at Highlands and became one of the most successful high school coaches in New Mexico history. His coaching resume is defined by both consistency and greatness:
Five State Championships: He led his alma mater, Pecos High School, to a state title in 1999 before moving to Rio Rancho High School in 2008.
The Rio Rancho Dynasty: Under his leadership, the Rams cross-country program secured state championships in 2013, 2014, 2016, and 2020.
The Ultimate Mentor: Beyond the trophies, Sal was instrumental in helping dozens of young runners secure college scholarships, ensuring their athletic success translated into life-changing educational opportunities.
Teacher and Leader
Sal's influence extended far beyond the finish line. He was a dedicated educator, teaching history and geography at Rio Rancho while serving as the school's Athletic Director. Even as he transitioned into administration, his focus remained on the growth and well-being of his students and his community. He recently retired from his position as AD to focus on his health, but his presence in the halls of Rio Rancho and on the trails of New Mexico will never be forgotten.
"Sal Gonzales represented the very best of the Highlands spirit. He was a scholar-athlete who used his passion to change the lives of hundreds of young people across our state," said Coach
Bob DeVries. "Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and the hundreds of runners he touched in his career, as we celebrate a life lived with incredible purpose. Rest in peace, Sal. Your race was run with incomparable heart."
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