Aug. 22, 2008
SAN DIEGO - The final in a series featuring Aztec newcomers, get to know freshman offensive lineman Erik Quinones (Canyon Lake, Calif.).
GoAztecs.com: Why did you choose San Diego State?
Quinones: I chose San Diego State because it was close to home and it was by the beach. I also liked the coaching staff.
GoAztecs.com: How have practices been so far?
Quinones: They have been long, but nothing out of the ordinary. It's obviously different because it is college, but the basics are still the same.
GoAztecs.com: How has your experience at SDSU been different from high school?
Quinones: Everybody is the best here and there is competition every day. It's not like high school where you just run the show. You have to come out here and be ready to work.
GoAztecs.com: What are you looking forward to most about the home opener next weekend?
Quinones: I'm looking forward to ending training camp and seeing all the work everyone has been putting in pay off.
GoAztecs.com: What do you like to do in your spare time?
Quinones: I like to read and listen to a lot of music. I also like to longboard.
GoAztecs.com: What type of music do you listen to?
Quinones: Lots. I like 80s punk, like the Dead Kennedys and the Doors.
GoAztecs.com: What is your most memorable moment from your high school football career?
Quinones: My most memorable moment would be my junior year when our running back set the national record for carries. That was pretty cool.
GoAztecs.com: Did you play any other sports?
Quinones: I only played football in high school, but growing up I played baseball. I didn't start football until I was a freshman.
GoAztecs.com: What made you decide to play football?
Quinones: The summer before my freshman year I knew all my friends were going to do it so I figured why not give it a try. I guess I just kind of fell into it.
GoAztecs.com: Who is the best player you have played with?
Quinones: Well, the best person I think so far is (linebacker) Shane Morris. He's been in the Navy and what he has done is pretty cool. But these guys are all the best.
GoAztecs.com: Who did you look up to when you were growing up?
Quinones: I would say my dad and Mike Piazza.
GoAztecs.com: Do you have a favorite NFL team?
Quinones: Steelers. My grandpa is from Pittsburgh and I got brainwashed.
GoAztecs.com: Do you know what you want to study at SDSU?
Quinones: I have an idea, but nothing solid yet. I'm thinking about majoring in international business.