Jess Payan

Athletics

Jess Michael Payan, a native son of Manteca, has distinguished himself as a person with extraordinary academic, athletic, and leadership skills. He is a source of pride for the community that gave him his start in life.

Jess Payan has an outstanding history as an athlete at Manteca High School in the sports of football, basketball, and baseball. He was selected All North State in California in both football and basketball in the same year, a feat not duplicated by any local athlete. While in high school he was the most valuable player in league championship in football three consecutive years and in basketball for one year. For his accomplishments. Jess Payan received a multitude of all league and state honors.

Following high school, Jess Payan received a number of college scholarship offers. He settled on a full scholarship at Santa Clara University where he excelled in football until the school dropped the sport. In the sport of baseball, he excelled during the four years prior to graduation. He continued his baseball career in the Army and with various semi-pro teams.

In his selected vocation, Jess Payan excelled as an educator and coach. In an exemplary and meritorious manner, he served as a role model and mentor to young people for 37 years. Numerous former students continue to seek him out to thank him for his advice and counsel.