Adventure, athletics, and the outdoors define Diego Contreras. Known for his determination and generosity, this senior at West Chicago Community High School has spent years excelling on the football field, building a business, and preparing for a future in automotive technology. Contreras’ focus on his goals, balanced by his commitment to friends and family, makes him stand out as a leader among his peers.
Contreras’ football journey began in second grade at the local park district. He joined the WEGO team as a freshman and quickly rose to the Varsity level, where he became a cornerstone of the Wildcats’ defense. Last year, he recorded 59 tackles and helped lead his team to a historic playoff run.
“With how long I’ve been playing and seeing the progress we’ve made—from being a one-and-eight school to competing at playoffs—it’s been amazing. Coach Chavez made us see our potential,” Contreras said.
Teammates admire Contreras for his energy and leadership.
“Diego helps the team by being the person to hype the team up when energy is low. He’s not scared of any contact, and he enjoys it,” junior Ean Arizmendi, a lineman on the football team, said.
Football isn’t Contreras’ only athletic endeavor. He spent two years on the track team, specializing in short distances like the 100m, 200m, and 4×2 relay. While he enjoyed the camaraderie and after-meet meals with teammates, Contreras decided to leave track this year to focus on work and school.
“I’ve had a bunch of people tell me, ‘You’ve got your whole life to work,’ but I see it as needing to make my own money somehow,” Contreras said. “It’s tough, but I know what’s best for me right now.”
Contreras’ passion for cars has been a lifelong interest, cultivated during weekends spent helping his dad at the family auto shop. He hopes to attend Universal Technical Institute (UTI) and ultimately work at Porsche or BMW as a master tech.
“I feel like my biggest goal right now is to be a BMW master tech. It’s not a long process, but it’s definitely challenging. You have to be on top of your grades and attendance—95% or better—and pass strict tests,” Contreras said.
Beyond football and career preparation, Contreras has built a thriving vintage clothing business. Inspired by his friend Jason Wang, he sells curated pieces on Depop under the username Dcthreads_. In just two months, he made over $600 in revenue, specializing in items like double-knee Carhartt pants and JNCO jeans.
“Usually on the weekends, I wake up early and head to thrift stores or Goodwill bins. I’m there for hours, but it’s worth it,” Contreras said.
Contreras’ thoughtfulness and kindness extend to his relationships. His girlfriend, fellow senior Abby Wing, highlights his depth and humor.
“At first, I thought he was just some shy, quiet kid. Then I got to know him better, and he’s one of the goofiest, loudest people I know. He just has to be around the right people,” Wing said.
Friends also appreciate his generosity.
“I remember when I got a flat tire on my car. I called Diego, and he was there within five minutes to help in the freezing cold. That just shows how much he cares,” senior Josh Ptak said.
Contreras’ values emphasize authenticity and resilience. He encourages others to avoid regret and embrace life’s decisions as opportunities to grow.
“I don’t like to regret things. Whatever happened, happened. You can’t go back and change it, so there’s no point dwelling on it,” Contreras said.
