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By Erin Kooser

Panther’s Tale

What would it mean to you to win back-to-back Class 6A titles?

“It would mean a lot because nobody else has done it and to actually be able to start in this one it’d be pretty special.”

Coach Brandon Clark said you have worked your tail off to earn your spot as a starter, have you done anything different compared to past years?

“I went to a lot more camps this year, and try to think more positively, trying harder, trying to actually get to the starting spot.”

What would you say to players that are in the position you were? Maybe being discouraged as to not starting varsity.

“Just continue to try hard and even if you are stuck on scout team for three years like I was, eventually they will see your progress and you will start.”

What was your mindset entering your final season as Derby Panther?

“To make it the best one yet. Have the best record and make it the most fun.”

Since this is officially your last game at Panther Stadium, what will that be like for you?

“It’s kind of sad, but then we want to go out with a bang so I am going to play my hardest (to) probably have the best game.”

Is there much pressure on this week’s 6A semifinal game vs. Lawrence Free State?

“There is a little bit of pressure, but with the group of guys that we are out there with, you really don’t feel the pressure because you are just enjoying yourself.”

What is the biggest focus for this team in facing Lawrence Free State this week?

“To play as a unit. Everybody do their job and everybody try their best to do their job.”

Finally, what is all the blond hair about?

“It was just something we could all do together as a team to show that we are brothers. Just for fun somebody was like ‘yeah, let’s all bleach our hair.’ It took a lot of convincing for me, but they got me to do it.”