03/13/2026
Gary Chavez, a Senior at Grants High School, applied for the Austin Denton Memorial Scholarship ($1,000) through NMAA and tonight he was honored on one of the biggest stages in New Mexico sports, The Pit in Albuquerque.
Gary is an honorable student who truly leads by example. A leader on and off the football field and a State Champion in Powerlifting, he represents the very best of Grants High School. Through adversity in his young life, Gary has remained focused, positive, and driven to achieve his goals.
The Austin Denton Memorial Scholarship, inspired by Austin Denton and created through the Austin Denton Foundation in 2021, celebrates students who share his determination and passion for opportunity. The foundation works to raise funds and awareness while helping create opportunities, especially in sports journalism and broadcasting for students who want to pursue their dreams.
Gary Chavez is the living definition of “Seize the Moment” the message behind this special scholarship.
On be half of Grants High School and Sideline 505 congratulations Gary on this incredible achievement!