Abie Paiz

Born in Velarde, N.M., Paiz, a 5-foot-8, 150-pound quarterback, received scholarship offers from UCLA and Texas Tech, but chose to stay home. It was at UNM where Paiz teamed with standout receiver Ralph Bowyer to establish one of the finest aerial combinations in the Southwest.

Paiz led New Mexico to the 1934 Border Conference championship with an 8-1 mark. He connected with Bowyer on two of the longest pass plays ever seen at the time: a 70-yarder in the 18-12 win over Arizona State and a 63-yard toss against Texas Mines (UTEP). Paiz was named all-Border Conference in 1934 and ’35, playing both offense and defense.

After service in the Navy, Paiz joined the Belen School System in 1947. He went on to become director of athletics as well as head football coach, head track coach, and assistant basketball coach. Paiz served as assistant principal before retiring in 1971.