LAS VEGAS (UNLVRebels.com) -

Photo Gallery

On the eve of his first spring game leading the Rebels, new UNLV head football coach Tony Sanchez took some time out Friday to take a quick look back.

Sanchez, who was hired at UNLV in December, visited Bishop Gorman High School and was presented the USA TODAY All-USA Coach of the Year Trophy as part of the American Family Insurance ALL-USA Football Team by a representative of the media outlet.

The Gaels football squad was also recognized for finishing as the top team in the publication's Super 25 high school football rankings.

Sanchez met with the media after the event and said it great to see old friends and get to thank everyone at his former school.

"It's kind of surreal," Sanchez said. "There really hasn't been much time to sit back and enjoy it. I think that's more something you do when your career is over. The transition between winning it last season here and starting at UNLV has been fast and furious. I'm really proud of the kids and the work and the effort they put in. Really proud of this school and the administration and the alumni for everything that they have done to build this place up to what it has become. And I'm also just as excited about the opportunity in front of me at UNLV."

The Rebels will stage their Spring Showcase on Saturday from noon to approximately 1:30 p.m. at the soccer stadium on campus. The family-friendly event is free and open to the public as the team closes out its 15-session spring practice.