By Erin Kooser
Panther’s Tale
Is there much pressure on Friday’s quarterfinal game against Hutchinson?
“Yeah, there is a lot of pressure. I mean, it’s win or go home, but that’s OK pressure is good.”
What was your mindset entering your final season as Derby Panther?
“Just not taking anything for granted and enjoying it. There is no time to be down and not enjoy all of this because there is just a year left, so definitely just trying to slow it down and soak everything in.”
You being a senior this year, how has that affected the way you play?
“Since it’s senior year, there are so many lasts. I’ve just focused more on soaking in all of it, kind of tried to slow time down almost. The last three years I didn’t ever think about it like I have, like how this is literally my last year to go. So definitely trying to soak everything in as much as i can.”
What is the biggest focus for this team, besides another Class 6A championship? Or is that the only focus?
“Nah, I mean that’s the goal. We want to go win state — that’s been on our minds like this whole season.
What’s something in your life that has shaped you as a person?
“This sounds cliche, but honestly, football has shaped me. Football, and sports in general, have taught me to be disciplined, hardworking and to have perseverance. Which is not only good in sports, but it’s good in the classroom. It’s good outside. It’s taught me great leadership skills and just stuff like that. Those are all good aspects to have as a human.”
Who is someone that has had the biggest impact on you as a player?
“Coach (Brandon) Clark really, just because I have been around him. Honestly, yeah he is loud and gets in your face. But, really, Coach Clark has shown how much he cares for all of us. Especially now that it is my senior year. You can tell that he kind of has a special care for all the seniors because he knows it’s their last year. He is always hard on you and sometimes to the point to where you just don’t like it, but I know it’s all for the best. He doesn’t do it because he likes yelling; he does it because he really cares. That’s really him showing how much he cares for us and he really shows that pretty well.”