53 Years of Magis

“In 1969, Fr. Luis G. Ripoll, S.J. asked me if I would be interested in a position that opened up at Belen as the Physical Education teacher,” said Carlos Barquín. “The rest is history! I had my dream job, but was I doing what God called me to do?”

 

After half a century of shaping thousands of strong, Catholic young men, it is safe to say that Carlos Barquín has lived his vocation embodying the Jesuit principles Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam, Magis and Cura Personalis. 

 

Barq, as he is affectionately known, has been a pillar of the Belen community. Beginning in the 2023-2024 academic year, he embarks on a new journey, so it is only fitting to reflect on the incredible impact he has made on countless lives throughout his tenure.

 

Barq began his journey at Belen Jesuit when the school was still in its early stages. His energy and dedication to his vocation ignited a passion for sports and physical fitness in the hearts of his students. Recognizing the need for athletic opportunities, he founded the cross country and track teams, which flourished into powerhouse programs. Today, the Belen Jesuit Cross Country program stands as one of the best in the country, boasting 14 state championships. Likewise, the track team has consistently represented the school at the state level, a testament to Barq’s unwavering commitment to excellence.

 

“Coach Barq’s life at Belen Jesuit began in 1969 when, as an 18-year-old Pedro Pan kid, he became very close to Fr. Luis Ripoll S.J. It was this friendship that led him to Belen Jesuit and its physical education department,” said Fr. Willie Garcia-Tuñón, S.J., ‘87in a letter to the community. “Fifty-three years later, Barquín has created one of the most successful athletic programs in South Florida. His accolades are numerous and include 30 state championships, numerous academic state championships, founder of the Belen Summer Camp, the development of all athletic facilities, and even the creation of a sport (Barq Ball). But, of all these accomplishments, it has been the character formation of men that has clearly defined him.” 

 

Although it’s easy to get lost in Barq’s five decades of service to Belen athletics, his influence extends far beyond sports. His impact on every student fortunate enough to don the Belen Jesuit uniform is immeasurable. Through tireless dedication and genuine care for each individual, he has instilled the core Jesuit values and the importance of the grad-at-grad (intellectual competence, faith formation, loving service, and a commitment to justice) for every student. Barq’s ability to connect with students on a personal level and inspire them to become well-rounded individuals has been truly remarkable.

 

One particular initiative that Barq spearheaded, which has become synonymous with his name, is the Belen Summer Camp. This program has been serving the Miami community for over 40 years, providing a safe and nurturing environment for children during the summer months. The camp not only offers recreational activities but also focuses on character development, fostering the same Ignatian values that Barq has championed throughout his career. It is a testament to his enduring commitment to the betterment of the community.

 

As Barq enters the next phase of his journey, he will assume the role of Special Assistant to the President, Fr. Willie. In this new capacity, he will oversee the completion of the Roberto Suris Athletic Facility, ensuring that future generations of students will benefit from state-of-the-art sports facilities that reflect the spirit of excellence he has cultivated over the years,” said Fr. Willie. “Barq’s passion for Belen Jesuit’s growth and development remains as strong as ever, even as he transitions into this new role.”

 

Although this marks the end of an era at Belen Jesuit, we are fortunate that he will remain an active member of the school community.  In Barq’s final Athletic Awards Ceremony, he left the Belen Community with this message:

 

“My mission as the school Athletic Director is now complete, and I hope and pray to God that he approves of it,” said Barq. “I thank the Jesuit community, the Jesuit Fathers, for giving me the opportunity to serve the school and the freedom to serve to the best of my ability. 

 

To those that attended Belen Jesuit before 1961, I thank you for the dream. They came over [from Cuba] and 2 months later they were in a classroom in Gesu, downtown. They provided the dream of Belen Jesuit through exile, even though they thought they would be going back to Cuba very quickly. We are still here.

 

To those who attended Belen on Calle Ocho, you all did so much with so little, and I thank you for inspiring me.

 

To those of you who attended our school from 1982 to the present, I thank you for the Magis, for all you have been able to do for our school, for how you have represented us, and for all that you have done. 

 

May God continue to bless our school and our community.”

 

To ensure his legacy is etched in stone, the Sportsman-of-the-Year Award has been named the Carlos Barquín Sportsman-of-the-Year Award. Looking toward the future, the Robert Surís Athletic Center will have a space dedicated to Barq’s incredible legacy at Belen.  

 

Barq, you are a true Belegend!