Football has been a big part of North Branch Football’s Michael Spisz XVII as it has given him opportunities to grow on and off the field.

As a receiver and cornerback, Spisz has learned a lot during his time at North Branch. He’s made plenty of memories with his teammates and coaches, and he’s enjoyed being part of a program that means so much to him. Along the way, he’s learned lessons that go beyond football.

In this edition of Beyond the Game, we talk with Spisz about this season, his time playing football at North Branch, some of his favorite memories, and what he’s learned from playing the game.

Casey Campbell: So, how did you first get interested in playing football?

Michael Spisz XVII: “I first got into football when I was going to St. Joe’s, a private Catholic school. I remember seeing the cool kids playing football at recess, so I decided to try it out. I caught the ball and thought, ‘Dang, this is really fun.’

“I went home and told my dad that I really liked football. He asked me if I wanted to sign up for flag football, and I said yeah.

“I played flag football for a few years. I wasn’t horrible, but I knew I could get better. I remember telling my dad one day that I wanted to work harder and improve.

“My dad was always coaching me. We’d go out in the backyard and play catch, run routes, work on coverage and do different drills. He really helped me get better and become the player I am today.”

Casey Campbell: You’re the 17th generation in your family to carry the name Michael Spisz. What’s the story behind that?

Michael Spisz XVII: “My family originally came from Poland, and we actually have a castle over there, which is pretty cool. We have royalty in our family, and that’s where the tradition of passing down the name Michael started.

“I believe my family came to America during World War II, and the name Michael has continued to be passed down through the generations.”

Casey Campbell: What are some of the biggest lessons you’ve learned from playing football?

Michael Spisz XVII: “One of the things that I’m definitely going to take away from this program is to not take anything for granted.

“I remember my freshman year like it was just a few months ago. One of my friends told me, ‘Yo, don’t take it for granted. You think you have time, but you don’t.’

“Then on senior night, I remember telling one of my friends, who’s an underclassman, that he doesn’t have a lot of time and needs to appreciate it. I remember thinking, ‘Dang, I sound exactly like my friend right now.’

Casey Campbell: Take me back to your first varsity start. Who was it against, and what do you remember about that experience?

Michael Spisz XVII: “My first varsity start was during my sophomore year against Caro at their place.

“I remember I wasn’t really that nervous going into the game. Of course, I had some nerves, but it wasn’t anything crazy because I had already gotten some playing time on varsity before that.

“I just looked at it as another football game. I had already been out on the field before, but this time I was officially a starter.

“I wanted to make the most of that opportunity and show my coaches why I deserved to be out there and that they made the right decision starting me.”

Casey Campbell: When you’re lining up on the field, what’s going through your mind?

Michael Spisz XVII: “I kind of see everything like a Madden field, if that makes sense. Like the video game.

“I’m thinking about what routes the other team likes to run and what coverage we’re going to use. If they’re running certain routes on first down, I’m thinking about changing the coverage to Cover 3.

“I kind of see myself thinking, ‘Okay, I cover this zone, he covers that zone, and if they run those routes, we’ll be able to stop the play.’

“On offense, I see it the same way. I’m looking at what the defense is showing and thinking about how I can get the safety to believe I’m running a different route.”

Casey Campbell: How do you prepare yourself mentally before a football game?

Michael Spisz XVII: “I’m a completely different person before a football game. I get mad at some of the littlest things, and I really just want to be left alone so I can focus.

“In our locker room, we have these dark blue LED lights, and it’s really cool when you shut off the regular lights and close the door. I’ll sit at my locker with the LED lights on and music blasting, and I’ll just focus on one thing, which is getting ready for the game.

“If someone comes up to give me a hug or wish me good luck, I’m like, ‘Dude, don’t touch me.’ Or if someone opens the door, I’ll yell, ‘Dude, shut the door.’ That’s just how I am before a game.

“I’m usually a pretty outgoing person, especially during practice or after games, but before a game, I’m completely different. I don’t really want to talk to anybody.

“I usually start getting into that mindset during the school day, but it’s really around team dinner after school when I flip that switch. That’s when I start getting into my zone and focusing on the game.”

Casey Campbell: What have your coaches and teammates meant to you during your time at North Branch?

Michael Spisz XVII: “Coach Sikora, he’s meant a lot to me. He’s kind of been a big figure in my life. He’s always been there for me and supported me. He’s always been a guy in my corner.

“Even when the game’s on the line, he’ll be like, ‘Spisz, the ball’s coming to you. Are you good with it?’ And I’m like, ‘Yeah.’

“He’s also been a big part of my recruiting process. He’s always asking if I want him to reach out to schools or letting me know when a school reaches out. He’s always been there to help me with that.

“My teammates have always been my buddies and friends that I’ve grown up playing football with. We’ve stayed together throughout the years, and nobody really left or quit.

“We’d go to practice and then hang out afterward, have bonfires or go swimming in the lake. It was nice having that group of guys together.

“The upperclassmen were role models for me when I was younger. They made me want to be part of the program, and those guys mean a lot to me. They’ve always been there for me whenever I’ve had a rough time.”

Casey Campbell: Looking back on your senior season, how quickly did it go by for you?

Michael Spisz XVII: “It’s crazy how fast everything went by. I feel like just last week we were getting ready for our Week 1 game against Gaylord and getting hyped up in the locker room.

“Sometimes I’ll go through my camera roll and find videos of me and my quarterback throwing the ball around during the summer.

“I’ll watch those videos and think, ‘Dang, that was three months ago? It feels like it was just last week.’

“It’s just crazy to think about how fast the season went by.”

Casey Campbell: What has playing football taught you about yourself?

Michael Spisz XVII: “Football has taught me not to take anything for granted and that if you put in the hard work now, it’ll pay off later.

“You put in all that work during the offseason, whether it’s lifting weights or getting better at different things, so that when the season comes around, you’re ready to go.

“You’ve got to do the sucky parts first, but once the season starts, everybody gets to watch you go out there and ball out.

“I’ve also learned to appreciate the little things because you never know how quickly everything can go by.”

Casey Campbell: Looking back on your time playing football at North Branch, what has the experience meant to you?

Michael Spisz XVII: “I knew last year, and I know now, that high school football is going to be one of the best times of my life.

“Playing football with your friends on a Friday night under the lights, with the whole town watching and cheering you on, it’s a feeling that only happens once. You’ll never get that experience again, and it’s the best feeling ever.

“One of my friends got a video of me scoring my last touchdown in front of our home crowd. You can hear everyone going insane, clapping and cheering. I watched that and thought, ‘Dang, that’s the last time that’ll happen.’

“It just makes me so grateful and thankful that I put so much time into this sport. Football has done so much for me and made me realize so many things that I wouldn’t have otherwise.”

Casey Campbell: What has football meant to you during your time at North Branch?

Michael Spisz XVII: “It means everything. Football has just done so much for me, and I’ve enjoyed everything about it.

“Even the sucky conditioning parts, where it’s like, ‘Oh, we have to go run in hot weather,’ or ‘I don’t really want to go throw today.’

“Knowing that I get happy and excited for things that are punishments for a sport, I just love it so much.

“Football’s done so much for me, and it means the world to me.”

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Grand Ledge 34 Rockford 31

Clarkston 49 Bloomfield Hills 14

Grand Blanc 39 Hartland 21

Detroit Catholic Central 43 Lake Orion 6

Oxford 42 Davison 28

Detroit Cass Tech 55 Plymouth 13

Dearborn Fordson 28 Belleville 14

Saline 35 Dearborn 14

Northville 28 Woodhaven 19

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Rochester 22 Macomb Dakota 21

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Rochester Adams 35 Utica 0

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Portage Northern 51 Traverse City West 43

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Monroe St Mary Catholic Central 54 Leslie 26

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Union City 16 Detroit Community 6

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Bay City Western 41 Bay City Central 0

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Detroit Edison 26 Caro 20

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Detroit Cass Tech 30 New Market Huron Heights 7

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Goodrich 28 Gladwin 20

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Forest Hills Central 20 East Grand Rapids 17

Forest Hills Northern 30 Grand Rapids Northview 24

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Manchester 60 Hillsdale 45

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Hopkins 49 Holland 7

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Kent City 22 Montrose 20

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Macomb Lutheran North 40 Flat Rock 22

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Marine City 21 Marysville 6

Mason 24 Harper Woods 18

McBain 29 Fowler 28

Midland Dow 27 Midland 7

Saginaw Swan Valley 35 Midland Bullock Creek 6

Grass Lake 28 Milan 14

Milford 31 Walled Lake Western 28

Rochester 35 Monroe 14

Clinton 52 Monroe Jefferson 28

Hemlock 49 Mt Morris 6

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Muskegon Mona Shores 37 River Rouge 28

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Waterford Mott 41 Troy 14

Troy Athens 45 Berkley 14

Birmingham Seaholm 21 Utica 20

Paw Paw 14 Vicksburg 7

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North Farmington 48 Walled Lake Northern 6

Utica Eisenhower 39 West Bloomfield 18

South Lyon East 34 Lakeland 7

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Hart 50 Wyoming 16

Holly 34 Yale 6

Zeeland East 38 Hamilton 37

The Caledonia Fighting Scots are coming off a 41-20 win over Grand Haven in Week 8 of the high school football season. They will now look to close out OK Red play and the regular season on a strong note as they host West Ottawa before the playoffs begin next week.

One of the players to watch for Caledonia this season is quarterback Bryce Backus, who is looking to finish the regular season strong. Throughout his football journey, Backus has experienced his share of ups and downs, but along the way, he’s learned a lot about football, life and himself, both on and off the field.

In this edition of Beyond the Game, Backus talks about his football journey, what he enjoys about playing quarterback, the lessons he’s learned and what high school football has meant to him.

Casey Campbell: Take me back to your first varsity start. What do you remember most about that experience?

Bryce Backus: “My first start was my junior year in our season opener against Holy Windsor from Canada.

“Our stadium wasn’t finished yet, so there were fences up around the field, and nobody could sit on the home side. The student section ended up standing along the fences around the track.

“It was a really cool atmosphere. Every time we scored a touchdown, we’d run over to the fans, and they’d be banging on the fences. They were probably only 20 feet away from us.

“That was one of the most electric games I’ve ever been a part of. It was awesome.”

Casey Campbell: You grew up watching Caledonia football, and now you’re the starting quarterback. What’s it been like getting the chance to represent your school?

Bryce Backus: “It means a lot, for sure. Growing up, I remember going to games and seeing 10,000 people there. We used to have this little hill before they did all the construction, and you’d sit there watching everything and thinking, ‘Oh my goodness, I want that to be me one day.’

“It was almost like having your own little NFL or college team. Now, being in those shoes and getting to look up into the stands and see all those people, it means a lot.

“There’s a lot that comes with being in that position, and I don’t take it for granted. It’s pretty special to look around and see all those people there watching you play. It’s something you don’t take lightly.”

Casey Campbell: You’ve always seemed like a pretty confident person. Where does that confidence come from, and how has it helped you as a quarterback?

Bryce Backus: “I honestly think I was just born with it. I’ve had it forever, and I’ve learned how to keep it contained pretty well.

“When I was younger, I was definitely that annoying kid who would say, ‘Oh, I’m better than you. I can do this.’ That was 100% me back in the day.

“But I’ve grown with it, and I’ve gotten better at knowing when to show that confidence and when to keep it to myself.

“There are times when you have to show it, especially in football. As a quarterback, you almost have to have that confidence. You have to believe in yourself and carry yourself that way.”

Casey Campbell: Playing in the OK Red, you’re facing some really good teams every week. How has that level of competition helped you grow as a quarterback?

Bryce Backus: “Every week, you’re going up against teams that have commits across the board. There’s not one team in the OK Red that you can take lightly.

“You can’t go into a game thinking you’re going to beat somebody by 40 points. You have to be at the top of your game every week because if you’re not, there’s a good chance you’re going to lose. I think that’s definitely made me a better player.

“At the end of the day, there are only 11 guys on the field. It doesn’t matter how many kids a school has or how good they are. Football is football. You just have to be better than the 11 guys you’re going against.

“I don’t think some people realize how tough this conference is. Even the teams people might consider weaker are still really good. Facing that kind of competition every week has helped me become a better player.”

Casey Campbell: This is your second year playing under Coach Whitney. What’s it been like working with him, and how has he helped you grow as a quarterback?

Bryce Backus: “He’s been probably the most caring coach I’ve ever had. He truly cares about us as players and wants us to grow and develop.

“I kid you not, if you’re not at a workout in the morning during the summer, he’ll be calling you and sending you messages. That hasn’t happened to me, but if you don’t let him know beforehand why you’re not there, he’ll hold you to a really high standard.

“I think you need that as a player. When you have a coach who holds you to that high of a standard, you develop and become better.

“He’s completely changed our mindset when it comes to practicing and weightlifting. Before, we’d have a weightlifting class at school, and guys would kind of mess around and not take it as seriously. He’s made it clear that we need to put in the work.

“He wants us to succeed and become better players. I think he’s made the program so much better just through his work ethic. He’s doing a great job, for sure.”

Casey Campbell: As a quarterback, you’re going to have your ups and downs. How have you learned to deal with mistakes and move on to the next play?

Bryce Backus: “You almost have to have a goldfish memory sometimes. You have to learn from your mistakes, but at the same time, you can’t dwell on them.

“If you asked me after a game how many completions I had, I could probably name two. I genuinely forget about most of them because I’m already focused on the next play.

“When you make a mistake, you have to figure out what went wrong and make sure it doesn’t happen again. But once you’ve done that, you have to put it behind you.

“That goes for good plays, too. Whether something good or bad happens, you have to move on and focus on what’s next.”

Casey Campbell: After getting hurt and missing the rest of your junior season, what was it like having to watch from the sidelines instead of being out there with your teammates?

Bryce Backus: “It was heartbreaking in every aspect. You think about the recruiting side of things and how important your junior year is. Then, all of a sudden, you get hurt, and you don’t have any film.

“Then there’s the football side of it. You realize you only have one more year left, and that’s tough, too.

“I was still at every practice, trying to help the team however I could. I wanted to be there cheering my guys on, but it was hard knowing I couldn’t be out there playing with them.

“It was great seeing my teammates succeed, but there was always that feeling of, ‘Dang, I could be out there right now.’ Unfortunately, I didn’t get that opportunity.”

Casey Campbell: Looking back on your injury, what did that experience teach you about football and appreciating the time you have left to play?

Bryce Backus: “It genuinely taught me that you have to enjoy the game while you can. You can’t take it for granted.

“Going into last season, I was kind of like, ‘Whatever, it is what it is.’ But going into this season, I’m playing every game like it’s my last game ever.

“I’m not taking anything for granted. This game is so fun, and I’m just happy to be able to play it. Even every day at practice, I’m grateful to be out there.”

Casey Campbell: Now that you’re in your senior season, how have you approached this year differently, especially after everything you went through last season?

Bryce Backus: “I think the biggest thing is just enjoying it. I’m not putting as much pressure on myself as I used to.

“Obviously, I still want to win, and I’m going to do everything I can to help our team succeed. But at the same time, I want to have fun with it.

“You only get to play high school football for so long, and once it’s over, you don’t get those moments back. I’m trying to enjoy being around my teammates, going to practice and playing on Friday nights.

“I’m just trying to make the most of it while I still can.”

Casey Campbell: How do you keep yourself in a good mindset throughout the season, especially with all the pressure that comes with playing quarterback?

Bryce Backus: “I think it’s just confidence, really. Believing in yourself is a huge thing, and you have to love what you do.

“You can’t care what other people say. You just have to have confidence in yourself and believe in what you’re doing.

“If something goes wrong, who cares? You’re human. You’re going to make mistakes. Just go out there and make a better play at the end of the day.”

Casey Campbell: With your senior season coming to an end, has it started to sink in that your time playing high school football is almost over?

Bryce Backus: “Honestly, it’s starting to hit me a little bit. We’re getting closer to the end of the regular season, but we’re also hoping to make a run in the playoffs.

“I know my time playing high school football is coming to an end, and it’s going to be tough when that day comes. Right now, though, I’m just trying to focus on what’s ahead of us and enjoy every opportunity I have left with my teammates.

“We’ve worked hard to get to this point, and I just want to make the most of the time we have left.”

Casey Campbell: Looking back on your football journey, how has the game helped shape you into the person you are today?

Bryce Backus: “I think football has made me a lot more outgoing. One of the biggest things has been learning how to talk to other coaches and going through the recruiting process.

“It’s helped me get out of my comfort zone and become someone who can go up to anybody and start a conversation. I think that’s made me a better person.

“Football also teaches you so many little life lessons that you don’t even realize at the time. Sometimes, a couple of years later, you’ll look back and think, ‘Oh wow, that actually meant something.’ It’s kind of weird how that works.”

One of the players who has played a big role in the Wildcats’ success this season is senior linebacker and running back Keedan Pociask. Throughout his time in the Oxford program, Pociask has grown as both a player and a person. Now in his senior year, he’s trying to make the most of his remaining time on the football field while enjoying the opportunity to play alongside the teammates he grew up with.

In this edition of Beyond the Game, we talk with Pociask about how he got into football, the lessons he’s learned from the game he loves and what being an Oxford Wildcat has meant to him.

Casey Campbell: Let’s go back to the beginning. How did you first get into playing football?

Keedan Pociask: “It started when I was really young. I had just moved to Oxford after living in Davison for a while. I moved here around second grade, and one of my first friends was actually a kid from my neighborhood.

“I wasn’t really a big football guy. I was more into baseball. One day, he came up to my door and asked if I wanted to join the Oxford Junior Wildcats, which is the tackle football program in Oxford.

“I was a little hesitant at first because I hadn’t played much football before, but I decided to give it a shot. Ever since then, it just clicked. I loved going to it, and I’ve made some of my best friends there. I’ve also built some great relationships with the coaches along the way.

“Looking back, if it wasn’t for him, I probably wouldn’t be here. I can’t give him enough credit for that.”

Casey Campbell: You’ve seen how much the Oxford football program has grown over the last few years. What do you think has made the biggest difference in getting the program to where it is today?

Keedan Pociask: “I think a big part of it is how close we’ve become as a team. We’ve spent a lot of time together, putting in the extra work and building those relationships that have helped us get better.

“Coach Trevor Potts has been a big part of that, too. He’s always talking about how important it is to be together and be one family. He’s really pushed us to build those relationships and hold each other accountable.

“That’s one of the things I look forward to most about football. I get to be around my boys every day. We all enjoy being around each other, and I think that’s made a big difference in how we’ve grown as a team.”

Casey Campbell: Take me back to your first varsity start against Hartland. What was that experience like for you?

Keedan Pociask: “I got pulled up my sophomore year, but I didn’t really see the field much. I was mostly on the scout team. My first varsity start came in the first game of my junior year against Hartland, and I don’t think I’ve ever been more nervous for a game.

“I was shaking before the game. I think playing at home helped a lot because I had everyone wishing me luck, but I was still pretty nervous.

“Once the game started, I thought I played pretty well. I ended up scoring our first touchdown of the season, which was also my first varsity touchdown. That was pretty exciting.

“That was probably one of the best games of my life, and I haven’t looked back since.”

Casey Campbell: Looking back at your football career, who are some of the people who have helped you get to where you are today?

Keedan Pociask: “There have been a few people. Last year, Coach Potts really took me under his wing. He believed in me, gave me the opportunity to start and helped me a lot throughout the summer.

“Another one is Brady Carpenter, our quarterbacks coach. I’ve known him for a while because he was also my baseball coach. He believed in me back then and gave me opportunities in baseball, too. He’s always been there for me, and I still get extra work in with him. He’s probably one of the best coaches I’ve ever had.

“As far as players go, there’s Jack Hendrix. We played baseball together and spent a lot of time working out over the summer. Then there’s A.J. Krupa and Tommy Candela, who played linebacker. Those guys took me under their wing and were always there whenever I needed help. I couldn’t have asked for better people to learn from. They’ve all helped me in different ways, and I can’t thank them enough for everything they’ve done for me.”

Casey Campbell: Football comes with a lot of ups and downs. How have you learned to handle those moments, whether things are going well or you’re going through a tough stretch?

Keedan Pociask: “I used to like being alone during those times and trying to deal with everything myself, but I realized that didn’t really help.

“I’ve learned that spending time with my family and friends helps me a lot. They’ve always been there for me through the highs and lows, and I love talking to people. Just having someone there to talk to makes a big difference when I’m going through something tough.

“Even after a big win, those are the people I want to celebrate with. They’ve always been there for me, and I think that’s what helps me get through those moments.”

Casey Campbell: You’ve talked about being someone who tends to overthink things. How have you learned to deal with that as you’ve gotten older?

Keedan Pociask: “I’m still quite the overthinker, but I’ve always had talks with my parents and my brother. My brother’s always been there for me, and I like talking to them about it.

“If I’m in a situation where I’m really nervous, I start stressing out and overthinking everything. Like if I’m at a job interview, I’ll start wondering what I should say or whether I said the right things.

“Another thing that’s helped me a lot is knowing that God put me in that situation for a reason. I believe He’s always got my back and is going to guide the way.

“I just try to remember that everything happens for a reason. If something bad happens, I can learn from it.”

Casey Campbell: When you look back at your time playing football at Oxford, what are some of the things you’ll remember most about the experience?

Keedan Pociask: “I think for me, it’s the overall experience. The workouts, the early mornings, the coaches and the players.

“But more than anything, it’s the community that’s been around me and has always been there for me. My friends and coaches have given me the opportunity to play the way I do and helped put me in the position I’m in today.

“I think that’s what I’ll remember most about my time here.”

Casey Campbell: As you start thinking about playing football at the next level, what’s most important to you when it comes to finding the right college?

Keedan Pociask: “For me, it’s about finding a school where I feel comfortable and know I’ll be treated right.

“I know I’m a little undersized, and playing Division I football or making it to the NFL was always a dream of mine growing up. But as I’ve gotten older, I’ve started looking at things a little differently.

“Now I just want to find a place where I can enjoy playing football, get a good education and prepare myself for whatever comes next.”

Napoleon 56 Leslie 18

Michigan Center 33 Brooklyn Columbia Central 14

Vandercook Lake 50 Addison 15

Holly 41 Owosso 20

Midland Bullock Creek 39 Beaverton 0

Ogemaw Heights 61 Farwell 6

Shepherd 29 Harrison 22

Standish Sterling 27 Pinconning 0

Sanford Meridian 28 Gladwin 13

Clare 61 St Louis 6

Goodrich 49 Fenton 14

Clio 34 Flint Kearsley 12

Corunna 28 Flushing 14

Linden 49 Ortonville Brandon 14

Lake Fenton 29 Swartz Creek 28

Troy Athens 35 Avondale 0

Bloomfield Hills 42 Berkley 7

Stoney Creek 36 Ferndale 12

Troy 38 Pontiac 6

Rochester 49 Royal Oak 0

Oxford 45 Birmingham Groves 22

Rochester Adams 22 Birmingham Seaholm 21

Harper Woods 28 Clarkston 13

Lake Orion 35 Oak Park 8

West Bloomfield 28 Southfield A&T 2

Detroit Cass Tech 21 Detroit King 20

Detroit Central 8 Detroit Denby 6

Allen Park 45 Dearborn Edsel Ford 14

Bay City John Glenn 35 Alma 21

Dexter 27 Ann Arbor Pioneer 13

Flint Powers Catholic 45 Ann Arbor Skyline 20

Armada 42 Yale 6

Traverse City Central 45 Bay City Central 18

Brother Rice 30 St Johns Jesuit 25

Freeland 63 Bridgeport 0

Brighton 48 Westland John Glenn 12

Cadillac 43 Escanaba 7

Canton 40 Wayne Memorial 14

Portland 21 Charlotte 0

Clawson 41 Hazel Park 8

Chip Valley 63 Warren Mott 0

Fruitport 20 Comstock Park 9

Coopersville 56 Allendale 0

Almont 41 Croswell Lexington 6

Grand Blanc 28 Davison 21

Howell 54 Crestwood 13

Jackson Lumen Christi 28 Detroit Country Day 27

U of D Jesuit 21 Ann Arbor Father Gabriel Richard 19

Dundee 35 Onsted 34

East Grand Rapids 28 Thornapple Kellogg 27

Edwardsburg 59 Vicksburg 27

Sand Creek 54 Erie Mason 18

Caro 17 Essexville Garber 7

Fowlerville 21 Pinckney 13

Gibraltar Carlson 27 Lincoln Park 8

Caledonia 41 Grand Haven 20

Grand Ledge 28 Dewitt 14

Grand Rapids Catholic Central 21 Holland Christian 20 (OT)

Grand Rapids Northview 28 Grand Rapids Ottawa Hills 0

South Christian 45 Zeeland East 14

Muskegon 49 Grand Rapids Union 0

West Catholic 34 Wayland 13

Greenville 20 Sparta 7

Riverview 40 Grosse Ile 26

Grand Rapids Christian 41 Hamilton 13

Williamston 53 Hamtramck 6

Hartland 41 Dearborn 14

Blissfield 50 Hillsdale 14

East Kentwood 63 West Ottawa 31

Hudson 26 Ida 0

Hudsonville 17 Rockford 14

Ithaca 35 Fowler 0

Adrian 43 Jackson 13

Battle Creek Harper Creek 47 Jackson Northwest 45 (OT)

Grandville 62 Jenison 8

St Joseph 43 Kalamazoo Central 6

Portage Northern 46 Loy Norrix 13

Lake Odessa Lakewood 31 Olivet 21

Lansing Catholic 28 Ionia 22

East Lansing 35 Lansing Everett 7

Lansing Sexton 42 Eaton Rapids 7

Lansing Waverly 35 Holt 34

Livonia Franklin 38 Walled Lake Northern 6

Livonia Churchill 42 Livonia Stevenson 14

Kenowa Hills 35 Lowell 21

Macomb Dakota 35 Utica 14

Port Huron 42 Madison Heights Lamphere 21

Marine City 35 Algonac 21

Marshall 45 Coldwater 7

Hastings 54 Mason 49

Midland Dow 44 Lapeer 14

Carleton Airport 49 Milan 6

Milford 48 Lakeland 9

Monroe 42 Ann Arbor Huron 6

Monroe Jefferson 8 Monroe St Mary Catholic Central 6

Montrose 49 Birch Run 7

Mount Pleasant 34 Midland 10

Durand 77 Mt Morris 24

Muskegon Mona Shores 36 Forest Hills Northern 0

Muskegon Orchard View 58 Muskegon Oakridge 7

Byron Center 55 Reeths Puffer 14

Anchor Bay 17 Sterling Heights Stevenson 7

New Boston Huron 41 Flat Rock 33

North Branch 31 Richmond 6

Farmington 29 North Farmington 6

North Muskegon 21 Ravenna 13

Northville 55 Salem 14

Dearborn Fordson 55 Novi 0

Haslett 21 Okemos 11

New Lothrop 42 Lakeville Memorial 0

Ovid Elsie 42 Chesaning 35

Parma Western 42 Battle Creek Pennfield 2

Paw Paw 50 Three Rivers 7

Marquette 19 Petoskey 10

Niles 56 Plainwell 0

Belleville 48 Plymouth 14

Pontiac Notre Dame Prep 42 Warren Lincoln 16

Grosse Pointe South 50 Port Huron Northern 0

Portage Central 56 Mattawan 14

Reed City 39 Boyne City 8

Cass City 22 Reese 6

Romeo 56 Roseville 14

Romulus 38 Whitmore Lake 12

Saginaw Hertiage 28 Big Rapids 21

Frankenmuth 41 Saginaw Swan Valley 22

Alpena 40 Sault Ste Marie 0

Walled Lake Western 42 South Lyon East 14

Forest Hills Eastern 17 Spring Lake 14

St Johns 55 Gaylord 7

Sturgis 36 Otsego 16

Saline 35 Temperance Bedford 21

Toledo Central Catholic 28 Orchard Lake St Marys 21

Detroit Catholic Central 42 Toledo St Francis De Sales 0

Traverse City West 27 Bay City Western 26

Woodhaven 27 Trenton 20 (OT)

Millington 34 Ubly 30

St Clair Shores Lakeview 28 Utica Eisenhower 13

South Lyon 63 Walled Lake Central 6

Ludington 27 Whitehall 26

Cedar Springs 50 Wyandotte Roosevelt 14

Hudsonville Unity Christian 35 Wyoming 12

Tecumseh 22 Ypsi Community 14

Chelsea 52 Ypsi Lincoln 7

Zeeland West 56 Forest Hills Central 20

One of the players to watch for Milford this season is senior quarterback Hudson Smith, who is looking to finish the regular season strong with just two weeks remaining.

But getting to this point hasn’t been easy for Smith. Before the season began, he dealt with a serious illness that left him hospitalized for multiple days, unsure if he would even get the chance to play his senior season.

Now back on the field, Smith has a different appreciation for the game he loves as he looks to finish his high school football career strong before heading to Northern Michigan next fall to continue his football career.

In this edition of Beyond the Game, Smith talks about his football journey, the lessons he’s learned along the way and how his experience has given him a new appreciation for the game.

Casey Campbell: Let’s go back to when you were younger. How did you first get into football, and where did that love for the game come from?

Hudson Smith: “It came from a guy named Dave Lesky, who I met when I was in preschool. He was the dad of my best friend, and he played three years in the NFL. He went to Eastern Michigan, played linebacker and was part of one of Catholic Central’s state championship teams.

“I remember being over at their house, and they were always talking about football. That’s really where it all started. My parents didn’t want me playing football at first, but he got me into flag football.

“We started putting together some really good flag football teams and traveling to different places. We had guys like Dakota Grant, Lorenzo Barber and AJ Marks playing with us. We were all in fifth or sixth grade, so we didn’t know where everybody was going to end up.

“You start meeting all these guys, traveling together and falling in love with the game. Eventually, I started playing tackle football, and when Dave became the offensive coordinator at Catholic Central, I followed him there. So that was pretty cool.”

Casey Campbell: You started your high school football career at Detroit Catholic Central before transferring to Milford. Looking back, what was that whole experience like for you?

Hudson Smith: “I wouldn’t trade any of it for anything. I feel like everything that happened while I was at Catholic Central happened for a reason. I’m a big believer that everything happens for a reason.

“I learned a lot of valuable life lessons there and met some really good people who still have a big influence on my life today.

“Transferring back to Milford was tough, and I learned a lot throughout that process. But there were also so many positives that came with it. Being back in my hometown, reconnecting with old friends and feeling like I was part of the community again meant a lot to me.

“And obviously, getting to experience Friday night football at Milford has been a lot of fun. Looking back, everything worked out, and I wouldn’t change a thing.”

Casey Campbell: Let’s go back to your first varsity start at Milford against Walled Lake Western during your junior year. What stands out to you most about that game?

Hudson Smith: “I remember before the game, I wasn’t nervous at all. I felt pretty good during pregame, but once we went out for the captains’ meeting, it started to hit me. I was a captain as a junior, and when I walked out to shake hands, I remember thinking, ‘Oh, here we go.’ That’s when the nerves kicked in.

“Running out of the tunnel for the first time at Milford was pretty cool, too. I had grown up around Milford my whole life, so finally getting that opportunity meant a lot.

“We didn’t get off to a great start. I started one-for-eight passing and threw a pick-six in the first quarter. We were down 24-0, and I remember thinking, ‘Man, this isn’t how you want to start.’

“But we started getting something going in the second quarter. I threw a touchdown to Zach Tyler, and that’s when I started feeling more confident. Then I threw another touchdown to Bryce Morris right before halftime, and we went into the locker room down 31-14.

“We came out in the second half, scored a couple of touchdowns, and got it to 31-28. We had gone from being down 24-0 to making it a three-point game.

“Things got away from us in the fourth quarter, but looking back, it was a pretty cool experience. That was one of the first times we faced that kind of adversity as a team, and I thought we responded well considering how the game started.”

Casey Campbell: Looking back at the ups and downs of your junior season, what’s the biggest lesson you learned that you’ve carried into this year?

Hudson Smith: “I think the biggest thing is understanding that it’s not always going to be sunshine and rainbows. Things aren’t always going to go your way, and you’re going to have good moments and bad moments. Being able to stay level-headed and keep the same mindset, whether things are going well or not, is really important.

“One thing I noticed last year was how we struggled to start games but usually played much better as they went on. That’s something we’ve had to work on because you want to come out strong and keep that going throughout the game.

“You have to realize that things aren’t always going to go according to plan. Sometimes you have to make adjustments, and it’s about learning how to handle those situations, stay composed and work through them with your teammates.”

Casey Campbell: Heading into your senior season, what was your mindset knowing this would be your final year playing football at Milford?

Hudson Smith: “I think the biggest thing for me and our team was that we wanted to win games. Last year, we were competitive with a lot of teams, but this year we wanted to take that next step, finish games strong and see how far we could go.

“Whether that meant winning a conference championship, making the playoffs or competing for a district or regional championship, we wanted to accomplish something.

“I feel like there’s a lot more confidence throughout the program this year, from the coaching staff to the players. We learned a lot from last season and have a better understanding of what we need to do. We’ve developed more of an identity as a team, and I think that’s helped bring everyone together.”

Casey Campbell: You talked about wanting to take that next step this season. What’s been the biggest difference you’ve noticed with this year’s Milford team compared to last year?

Hudson Smith: “I think the biggest difference has been the buy-in from everybody. We’ve seen a huge increase in attendance at STS, which is our morning workouts. We’re getting close to double, if not almost three times, the number of guys showing up compared to last year.

“That’s been happening since the winter, and I think it shows how committed everyone is. We’ve grown closer as a team, set higher expectations for ourselves and become more player-led.

“Everybody is buying in and working toward the same goal, and I think that’s made a big difference for us this year.”

Casey Campbell: Before the season, you dealt with a very serious illness. How did it all start, and what happened?

Hudson Smith: “It started when the lymph nodes in my neck kept getting bigger and bigger. I was in a lot of pain, but I didn’t want to rush to the hospital right away. I wanted to see if things would settle down on their own.

“We waited about a week, and I was still able to go watch our scrimmage, which was pretty cool.

“Eventually, I went to the hospital and had a bunch of tests done. I ended up spending six days and five nights there and had surgery on the right side of my neck.

“I got out of surgery the Friday before our Week 1 home game. I really wanted to be on the sidelines to help Bentley Moreno, who was 14 years old and getting ready for his first high school game at quarterback. I was able to wear a headset, communicate with the coaches and help him settle in a little bit.

“After that game, the left side of my neck started swelling, and I had to go back to the hospital. I spent another three days and two nights there and had a second surgery. It was definitely a crazy experience.”

Casey Campbell: While you were in the hospital dealing with all of this, what was going through your mind, and what did that experience teach you?

Hudson Smith: “It was really tough at the moment because it wasn’t something I could speed up. There was nothing I could do to make myself recover any faster, and I think that was the hardest part.

“While I was in the hospital, I lost 25 pounds in 12 days. It was a really dark and difficult time because all I wanted was to be back with my team. I kept thinking about the timing of everything. If this had happened in July, it wouldn’t have been as big of a deal, but having it happen right before the first game made it that much harder.

“You start having those thoughts about whether you’re going to come back from it and if things are ever going to be the same.

“I’m a big believer that God doesn’t give you situations you can’t handle, and I kept trying to remind myself of that. But when you’re actually going through something like this, it’s hard.

“Looking back, it’s taught me to value time a lot more. When you’re going through summer two-a-days, they can be tough, but when you’re lying in a hospital bed, you’d do anything to be back out there running gassers with your teammates. It sounds crazy, but that’s really how I felt.”

Casey Campbell: With everything you were going through, was there ever a point when you wondered if you’d be able to play football again?

Hudson Smith: “There were definitely times when I wondered if I’d be able to come back and whether I’d be the same player I was before.

“When I finally returned, I wasn’t sure how well I was going to play. But I just wanted to enjoy every day I had the opportunity to be out there.

“Everybody in the program helped me get back up to speed, and I’ve felt more and more like myself each week. Now I feel like I’m completely back.”

Casey Campbell: After everything you went through in the hospital, what was it like finally getting to go home and eventually being cleared to return to practice?

Hudson Smith: “Being able to get back home was a huge relief for me. Being cooped up in a hospital is never where you want to be. I didn’t have any windows in my room, so during those five nights, I had no clue what time it was. You lose track of time, and I could hardly sleep because of the pain. I was getting four hours of sleep a night at most.

“Being able to go home without pain for the first time was amazing. I knew I couldn’t go out and play a game or practice right away. I still had to wait another week or two, but just being pain-free and being able to eat again gave me a sense of freedom. That was special.

“Being able to throw a football again was a huge relief, too. When the doctor finally cleared me to return to light practice, that was all I needed. I could be back around everybody and start throwing again.

“I couldn’t participate in our full team sessions yet, but I could do routes on air and seven-on-seven. It was great to finally get back out there and start building myself back up.”

Casey Campbell: Once you were able to get back on the field, what was it like being around your teammates again after everything you’d been through?

Hudson Smith: “I really hadn’t been able to be around everybody while I was recovering. I was going to school for about half a day, so I’d see a few people here and there, but I hadn’t seen the whole team in a while.

“Nobody knew I was coming back to practice, so I just showed up at the field. It was the day before our Week 3 game, and it was my first time back in a helmet.

“It was a really cool moment because it made me realize how much everybody missed having me around. Seeing how excited my teammates were to have me back meant a lot.”

Casey Campbell: After everything you went through, what was it like finally getting the chance to play in a game again?

Hudson Smith: “It was a pretty cool feeling to be back out there. Even against South Lyon, we were moving the ball really well, which was encouraging. We didn’t win the game, but there were still a lot of positives to take away from it.

“Coming back, I realized I hadn’t lost everything I’d worked to build up. I knew I wasn’t quite the same player I was before getting sick, and I still had some work to do. But it was encouraging to know I could still go out there and play.

“Then, having success against Churchill and beating North Farmington, who had beaten South Lyon, was really cool. Seeing everything start to come together and how we’ve continued to improve since then has been pretty special.”

Casey Campbell: You’ve known Bryce Marszalek and Joey Beyer for a long time. What’s it been like getting to play alongside them at Milford, especially during your senior year?

Hudson Smith: “It goes all the way back to when we were little. I met Joey in preschool and Bryce in kindergarten, although our families knew each other before that. There’s actually a picture of Bryce and me at a wedding when we were about three years old, but we weren’t really friends yet.

“It’s pretty cool that we’ve stayed close all the way through senior year. I probably spend 90% of my time with those two. Even outside of football, we’re always hanging out.

“Having those relationships means a lot because they’re two guys I can always turn to, whether I’m stressed before a game or things aren’t going our way on the field.

“Before every game, the three of us get together in the end zone by the student section and pray. It’s a pretty special bond we’ve built over the years.”

Casey Campbell: Outside of football, how have your parents and the people around you helped shape the person you are today?

Hudson Smith: “I’d say a lot of that comes from my mom and dad. They definitely instilled those values in me growing up.

“Another person who had a big influence on me was Skyler Hunter when we were at Catholic Central. He told me that you only get four years of high school football, but the relationships you build can last a lifetime.

“That really stuck with me. It made me realize how important it is to get out, meet people and build those relationships because you never know how long they’ll last.

“I also enjoy knowing that I can make a difference in someone’s day and be there for them when they need somebody.”

Casey Campbell: You talked about how important relationships are to you. What do you enjoy most about getting to know people and making a difference in their lives?

Hudson Smith: “I’d say I’m a pretty outgoing person, and I really care about people. I’ve been through some dark times myself, so I can usually recognize when somebody else is struggling. I want to be someone they can turn to when they need help.

“One of the biggest things for me is being able to make a positive impact on the Milford community. I’ve always believed in leaving a place better than you found it, and that’s something I try to live by.

“I enjoy getting out, talking to people and building relationships. That’s just who I am.”

Casey Campbell: After everything you’ve been through this season, how has your appreciation for football changed?

Hudson Smith: “I definitely have a greater appreciation for it. Not saying I didn’t have a great appreciation before, but when it’s taken away from you, you feel differently about it.

“You realize how much of an impact football has on your life, your mental health and everything around you. When you only have nine guaranteed weeks in a season and a third of that gets taken away, it really makes you sit back and think about how much the game means to you.

“It made me realize just how much I really do love this sport.”

It hasn’t been an easy season for the West Bloomfield Lakers, who are looking to finish strong as they head into the final two weeks of the 2026 high school football season.

One of the players to watch for the Lakers this season is senior quarterback Jaxson Carver, who has come a long way throughout his football career. Carver has experienced his share of ups and downs over the years, but those experiences have helped him grow both on and off the field.

Now in his senior year, Carver is looking to continue improving as a player while making the most of the time he has left playing high school football at West Bloomfield.

In this edition of Beyond the Game, Carver talks about his football journey, the challenges he’s faced and the lessons he’s learned from the sport that he’ll carry with him long after his playing days are over.

Casey Campbell: Let’s go back to when you were growing up. How did you first get started playing football?

Jaxson Carver: “Growing up, I had older cousins, and one of them, David, played flag football. I was probably five or six at the time, and he was around seven or eight.

“I used to go watch him play. He wasn’t my older brother, but he was kind of like an older brother to me. I really enjoyed watching him, and that’s what made me want to start playing.

“We eventually got to play flag football together. After that, my family moved, and I started playing youth football.”

Casey Campbell: When you first started playing football, did you always want to be a quarterback, or did you play some other positions growing up?

Jaxson Carver: “When I first started playing flag football, I was more of a running back. Then, when I moved to youth football, I played tight end for the first three games. Eventually, I got a chance to play quarterback, and I ended up rushing for four touchdowns in that game.

“Ever since then, I’ve pretty much been a quarterback. There was one year in youth varsity when I played running back instead. That was a really good experience for me because it was the first time I wasn’t playing quarterback. It humbled me a little bit, and I learned a lot from it.

“But quarterback has always been the position I’ve wanted to play.”

Casey Campbell: Take me back to your first varsity start at West Bloomfield. What stands out to you most about that game?

Jaxson Carver: “My first start was during my junior year against Fordson at home. I had gotten some playing time against Chippewa Valley my sophomore year, but that was my first time starting a varsity game.

“We ended up winning 38-0, and I threw two touchdown passes. I thought I played pretty well, but I also had some great teammates around me who helped me out. We had a really good running game, too.

“I remember telling my mom the next day just how much fun I had. Having the student section there and seeing everyone in the stands made it even better. I don’t know if I’d ever had that much fun playing football before. It was definitely a special experience for me.”

Casey Campbell: Did it take you some time to adjust to playing varsity football?

Jaxson Carver: “Yeah, it did. We started off playing Fordson and Southfield A&T, and then we faced Adams in Week 3. That was kind of a punch in the mouth because I wasn’t used to the speed of the game. There’s definitely a difference when you go from playing certain teams to facing a really good team.

“I had games where I played really well and others where I struggled. I had one of my best games against Groves in Week 5, but then against Brighton in our 10th game, I probably had my worst game of the season.

“It was an up-and-down year, but I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. I learned a lot from those experiences, and they’ve helped me this year because the game has really slowed down for me. Looking back, I’d say it took me almost the entire season to fully adjust.”

Casey Campbell: You mentioned that the game has slowed down for you this year. How much has that helped you grow as a quarterback?

Jaxson Carver: “The game has definitely slowed down a lot for me. I’ve learned so much just from practicing and getting more experience on the field. It’s also helped me enjoy playing football a lot more.

“Even though the results haven’t been what we’ve wanted, I’ve still had a lot of fun playing with these guys. A lot of us have been together for the past four years. We came in as freshmen, and now we’re seniors getting to play together.”

Casey Campbell: It hasn’t been an easy season for you guys. How have you dealt with the challenges you’ve faced, and what have you learned from them?

Jaxson Carver: “I think a lot of it goes back to what I went through last year, especially against Brighton. I remember struggling mentally during practice that week. It had been a long season, and I was honestly ready for it to be over. Looking back, I feel bad about that, especially for the seniors on that team.

“One of my biggest goals this offseason was to become mentally tougher and learn how to handle things when they weren’t going my way.

“I remember against Adams this year, I threw an interception on our first drive that almost turned into a pick-six. We were able to bounce back and put some points on the board. We still lost, but I think if that had happened last year, I would’ve folded.

“That’s something I’ve really tried to improve on this season. Things haven’t gone the way we’ve wanted, but I’ve learned that you have to keep pushing through those tough moments.”

Casey Campbell: If you could go back a year and give yourself some advice, whether it’s about football or life in general, what would you tell yourself?

Jaxson Carver: “I would tell myself to be confident in who I am and not listen to what other people have to say. Be confident in yourself, both as a football player and as a person.

“Don’t try to be like somebody else. Just be yourself. That’s probably the biggest piece of advice I would give myself a year ago.

“I think having that mindset would’ve helped me a lot, especially in football, but in life as well. Just being confident in myself and being who I am.”

Casey Campbell: How much has the coaching staff at West Bloomfield helped you grow, both as a quarterback and as a person?

Jaxson Carver: “The coaches have done a tremendous job helping me develop, not just as a football player, but as a person. They’ve helped me become a better leader and grow both mentally and physically.

“They’ve also helped me a lot with recruiting and everything that comes with it. I really can’t thank them enough for everything they’ve done for me.

“Obviously, this season hasn’t gone the way we wanted, but I don’t think that takes anything away from our coaching staff. They’ve been tremendous to me, and I’m grateful for everything they’ve done.”

Casey Campbell: What’s the most important thing you’ve learned about being a leader and having other people look up to you?

Jaxson Carver: “I’d say character. When you’re leading people, you have to be yourself and do things for others. If you’re trying to lead people just for your own benefit, they’ll see right through that, and they won’t buy in.

“But if you’re leading people because you genuinely want to help them, they’ll recognize that and be more willing to follow you.

“As a leader, you have to want to help others get better, not just yourself. Don’t push somebody because you’re trying to improve. Push them because you want to see them improve. I think it comes down to being true to who you are and helping the people around you become better.”

Casey Campbell: Who would you say has been the biggest inspiration in your life?

Jaxson Carver: “I would say my dad, honestly. He’s someone I look up to every day. I talk to him every day, and he gives me a lot of great advice. Sometimes it’s advice I don’t want to hear, but it’s always good advice that helps me become a better person.

“As far as football goes, there are a lot of NFL players I look up to, but overall, I’d definitely say my dad.”

Casey Campbell: As you look back on your time at West Bloomfield, what has being part of this football program meant to you?

Jaxson Carver: “It meant a ton to me. Coming in as a freshman, I was around guys like Brandon Davis-Swain and other players who went on to play college football. I got to learn from those older guys and take a lot from their experiences.

“Over the years, I’ve learned so much from the older players, the coaches and the culture here. I know we’re struggling right now, but this really is run like a college program.

“I think that’s one of the biggest things I’ll take away from being here, just everything I’ve learned from the people around me and how the program operates.”

Casey Campbell: It’s hard to believe you’re already in your senior year. Are you trying to enjoy these last few moments before everyone goes their separate ways?

Jaxson Carver: “Yeah, definitely. I look back on my freshman year, and it feels like yesterday. Sophomore year flew by, junior year flew by, and I knew senior year was going to be the same way.

“I’m really trying to enjoy the time I have with my friends because I know after high school, I’m not going to see them as much, or at least not every day.

“I’m just trying to take it one day at a time instead of wishing it was over. Once it’s over, you’re off to college and then the real world. I’m just trying to enjoy it and savor every moment.”

Casey Campbell: What’s the greatest life lesson you’ve learned so far?

Jaxson Carver: “That’s a good question. I don’t know if there’s one specific thing that stands out, but I’d say always have good character. Be kind and respectful to people, and treat others the way you want to be treated. That’s something my parents taught me at a young age.

“I’d also say always work hard. That’s something I’ve learned from my family, especially my parents and grandparents. I’ve seen how hard they work at their jobs, putting in long days to provide for their families. Seeing that growing up has really rubbed off on me.”

But for Portland Football’s Deacon Townsend, the senior season he had been looking forward to didn’t go as planned. An injury earlier this year brought his final high school football season to an unexpected end.

Since then, Townsend has had to adjust to life on the sidelines while continuing to support his teammates. Along the way, he has also seen just how much support he has from the Portland community.

In this edition of Beyond the Game, Townsend talks about the injury that ended his senior season, the emotions he has experienced since then, the support he has received and what football has meant to him.

Casey Campbell: What has football meant to you growing up?

Deacon Townsend: “Football has always been a huge part of my life. I grew up watching the Lions, Wolverines and Spartans, and I’ve always loved the game.

“When I was younger, my dad coached me, and I was one of the bigger kids. That’s when I started realizing I could be a pretty good football player.

“From there, football was always on my mind. I would get the new Madden games and play them all the time. I watched football videos on YouTube, whether it was people playing Madden or old highlights.

“I would find a player I liked, get his jersey and spend the next couple of months watching everything I could about him. Football was just something I was always thinking about growing up.”

Casey Campbell: When it came to preparing for games, what were some of the things you did to make sure you were ready to play?

Deacon Townsend: “I watched a lot of film because I wanted to be prepared for anything. I probably spent around five hours a week watching film. Even if we were playing a team that wasn’t very good or didn’t throw the ball much, I still watched because I never wanted to be caught off guard.

“I’m also a big routine guy. I don’t like changing things up too much.

“Every week, especially on game days, I tried to do the same things. I ate the same food, followed the same routine at school, came home, took a nap, watched some film, and then headed to the school while listening to music.

“Having that routine helped me get into the right mindset. It made me feel more comfortable going into games and gave me confidence in what I could do on the field.”

Casey Campbell: You mentioned having a routine before every game. What did a typical game day look like for you?

Deacon Townsend: “I would usually come home from school, take a nap and watch some film on my iPad before heading back to school.

“On the way there, I would listen to calmer music. Once I got to school, I’d switch to rap or rock to get my adrenaline going and get myself ready for the game.

“When I got into the locker room, some of the guys would be throwing footballs around or talking, but I liked to sit there and think about what could happen during the game.

“We had a routine where we would listen to music until it was time to turn it off and wait for the coaches. During those few minutes, I would talk to myself and say things like, ‘You’re a good player. You know what to do. You can do this.’

“One thing I always told myself was, ‘You’ve played this game for so long. Don’t let today be the day you lose your love for it.’

“That helped me appreciate every moment and remember why I loved playing football. It also helped calm me down and get me ready to play.”

Casey Campbell: When you were visualizing before a game, what was going through your mind?

Deacon Townsend: “I wanted to be confident. A lot of people have doubts about themselves, and I tried to tell myself not to.

“I’d tell myself, ‘You know how to do this. You can perform well.’ That gave me comfort because I knew my abilities. I also liked picturing what could happen. Playing DB, I would think about the other team’s offense, what they could run at me and what I needed to do on different plays.

“I liked to hype myself up. I wasn’t trying to be cocky, but in my head, I wanted to feel like I was the best. I’d tell myself I could take on anybody and compete with anybody. I always tried to stay coolheaded while believing in myself.”

Casey Campbell: Going into your senior year, how excited were you about the opportunity to take on a bigger role and see what you could accomplish?

Deacon Townsend: “I was super excited. I knew I was going to have a big role on the team because I was one of only two returning starters. Throughout the offseason, the coaches talked to me about how much they were going to need me in different areas.

“I knew I was going to be one of the main guys running the ball on offense and one of our top defensive backs. Knowing that made me want to work even harder during the offseason.

“After last season, I wasn’t really sure if I wanted to play football at the next level. But hearing how much the coaches were counting on me gave me some extra motivation. I wanted to have a good year and get my name out there.

“I ended up getting an offer from Alma, which was really exciting, but I didn’t want that to be my only opportunity. I wanted to go out, have a big senior year and make a name for myself.”

Casey Campbell: Unfortunately, your senior season took an unexpected turn when you suffered the injury. Take me through that play and what you remember about what happened.

Deacon Townsend: “We were in the red zone, pretty close to the hash. I was following my blocks, ran into a lineman, and pushed off him before heading toward the sideline.

“There was a defender coming toward me, and I figured he was probably going to push me out of bounds since I was already pretty close to the sideline. As I tried to cut toward the sideline, he made what’s called a hip-drop tackle.

“Basically, he grabbed onto me and dropped his weight. My foot got caught in the turf as I was trying to go out of bounds, and he ended up landing on my ankle.

“When I tried to get up, I couldn’t feel my ankle. I was confused because I didn’t really know what had happened. At first, I thought it might have just been a stinger, but I couldn’t get back up.

“It was just a football play. It was unfortunate how he ended up landing on my ankle.”

Casey Campbell: When you started to realize how serious the injury might be, what was going through your mind at that moment?

Deacon Townsend: “When I first went down, I remember thinking, ‘That didn’t feel good.’ I was confused about what had happened, but after a few seconds, the pain started getting worse, and I knew something wasn’t right.

“When the trainer came over, I was in a lot of pain and shock. Part of me was still hoping it wasn’t going to be as bad as it seemed.

“But then I started hearing what the trainers were saying, and I looked up at my head coach. He was tearing up, and that’s when I started wondering, ‘Was that the last play of my career?’

“It’s hard to explain because I had so many emotions going through my head. Part of me was thinking, ‘This might be it for me,’ while another part was telling me I was going to be okay.

“I kept asking myself, ‘Why did this have to happen?’ I had put in so much work during the offseason. I was in the weight room every day and hadn’t missed a single day. After all that work, I couldn’t even make it through the beginning of the game.

“Part of me felt like it was unfair. I had so many emotions going through my head, and not many of them were good. I was pretty distraught.”

Casey Campbell: Now that some time has passed since the injury, how have you been doing, both physically and mentally?

Deacon Townsend: “I’m doing better. I’m not in any pain anymore, and I’ve come to terms with what happened. I know it’s something I can’t control.

“The only thing I can control is how I respond to it. I can keep my head up and continue supporting my teammates. I was a captain, so I still go to practices, stay in touch with the guys through our group chat and make sure everyone is doing well.

“Right now, all I can do is try to be the best version of myself and do whatever I can to help the team.

“I might not be able to contribute on the field anymore, but I can still make a difference off of it. That’s what I’m trying to do.”

Casey Campbell: Who are some of the people who have been there for you and helped you get through everything since the injury?

Deacon Townsend: “Honestly, pretty much the whole town. In the first couple of days before my surgery, I probably had five to 10 people stopping by my house every day to check on me. My teammates were coming over, and I had people texting me all the time.

“My family, friends, and teammates have all been there for me. Coach Novara has also kept in touch, checking in to see how I’m doing.

“The amount of support I’ve received has been incredible. I’ll be walking around town wearing something Portland, and people I’ve never even met will come up to me and say they heard about what happened. Everyone is always asking how I’m doing, and I really appreciate that.

“Our team pastor has been a big help, too. He’s called me several times and even came to my surgery to talk with me beforehand.

“Even when I’m at practices or games, the coaches will take time out of what they’re doing just to come over and talk with me for a while.

“Everyone has been so supportive throughout this whole thing, and it really means a lot to me.”

Casey Campbell: What has it meant to you to have so much support from the Portland community throughout all of this?

Deacon Townsend: “It’s been amazing. It makes me feel loved and gives me a lot of comfort knowing how many people are behind me.

“There are people I’ve never even met who know my name and what happened. Some have reached out to my parents, while others have found different ways to check in and see how I’m doing.

“Even when I’m at games, I’ll hear people in the stands yelling my name. That’s something that means a lot to me.

“I know not everyone gets that kind of support, and I feel extremely fortunate to have it.

“Knowing the whole community is behind me and that I’m not going through this alone has made a big difference. I’m really thankful for everyone who has been there for me.”

Casey Campbell: How has going through this injury changed you as a person and the way you look at things?

Deacon Townsend: “I definitely think it has changed me. There have been some rough days and a lot of tears. Usually, I’m pretty good at keeping my emotions together, but that first game I couldn’t play in was really tough.

“I couldn’t even be on the sideline because I had just gone through surgery. It was hard knowing I should have been out there with my teammates. I love seeing my friends succeed, but there’s also a part of me that wishes I could be out there with them. It’s tough to watch, even though I’m extremely happy for those guys.

“This whole experience has changed the way I look at things. I don’t think I’ll ever take anything for granted again. Football was such a big part of my life, and it was when I was happiest. Then, all of a sudden, it was taken away from me, and there was nothing I could do about it.

“But I also know I can’t just put my head down and give up. I still have to go through rehab, keep working and find a way to move forward.

“Going through something like this really changes your perspective on things.”

Casey Campbell: With everything you’ve gone through, where do you stand on the possibility of playing football again at the next level?

Deacon Townsend: “I’ve had some offers and interest from colleges, but even after last season, I wasn’t really sure if I wanted to keep playing football.

“Obviously, I love the game, but I didn’t know if I wanted to put my body through another four years of it. I was already starting to feel the physical toll football was taking on me.

“My plan was to see how my senior season went and then decide whether I wanted to keep playing or just be happy with the memories I had made and move on.

“But now I don’t have that senior season to help me make that decision. All I really have to look back on are the memories from previous years.

“So I’m still pretty conflicted about it. I’ve come to realize that there’s a possibility I might never play football again.

“But even if my playing days are over, I know football will always be part of my life. I’ll never leave the game completely.”

Casey Campbell: You mentioned that football will always be part of your life. Have you thought about staying involved in the game through coaching or possibly doing something else in sports?

Deacon Townsend: “I’ve always thought about coaching, and I think that’s something I could see myself doing someday. If I have kids, I’d love to coach them in whatever sports they decide to play. Even if it’s not football, I’ve always enjoyed coaching and being a leader.

“Sports have always been a big part of my life, and I want to stay involved with them in some way.

“Going through rehab and having to sit out has also gotten me interested in physical therapy or becoming an athletic trainer at a school. I’ve thought about doing something like that before because I like the idea of helping athletes recover and get back to doing what they love.

“Going through this experience myself has given me a greater appreciation for the people who do that kind of work. I’d love to be able to help other athletes the same way.”

Casey Campbell: Looking back on your time at Portland, what have you appreciated most about being part of the football program?

Deacon Townsend: “One thing I’ve always appreciated is how successful Portland football has been throughout my life.

“I’ve seen other programs where coaches come and go after only a couple of years. At Portland, our head coach has been here for a long time, and most of the coaching staff has stayed together for years.

“They’ve built a really successful and well-structured program, and I’m glad I’ve had the opportunity to play for them.

“As players, we know what to expect from our coaches, and they trust us to do our jobs. Having that consistency and knowing the program isn’t constantly changing is something I’ve really appreciated.”

Casey Campbell: What has Coach Novara meant to you, not just as a football player, but as a person?

Deacon Townsend: “He’s had a huge impact on me, both on and off the field.

“He’s always told us that if we ever need someone to talk to, we can come to him. Whether it’s about playing time or something going on outside of football, he’s willing to sit down and listen. He’s not going to get upset with somebody just because they want to talk about something.

“He cares a lot about everyone on the team, and I think that’s pretty incredible.

“After I got hurt, he talked to the team after the game about putting themselves in my shoes and understanding how badly I wanted to be out there with them.

“That meant a lot to me because it made me feel appreciated. It showed me that all the work I had put into football meant something, even though I couldn’t be out there anymore.

“He still texts me all the time to see how I’m doing. Just because I can’t play doesn’t mean he’s forgotten about me.

“He’s been there for me throughout this whole experience, and I couldn’t ask for a better coach. He’s the best coach I’ve ever had.”

Casey Campbell: When you look back on your playing career at Portland, what’s one memory that stands out the most?

Deacon Townsend: “The first one that comes to mind is our district semifinal against Grand Rapids South Christian.

“It was a really close game, and I think we were down by two scores at one point in the third quarter. I remember standing on the sideline thinking, ‘There’s no way this is how it’s going to end.’ I just had a feeling we were going to come back.

“We started getting stops on defense and putting points on the board. Eventually, we were able to force overtime.

“They scored first, but we blocked their extra point. Then we got the ball, scored a touchdown and had a chance to win it with the extra point.

“We made the kick, and everybody rushed the field. I just remember how excited we all were. It was an incredible feeling.

“That’s one of the coolest moments I’ve ever experienced playing football. Just knowing we had battled back, won that game and were moving on to the next round made it really special.”

Casey Campbell: When you look back on your time playing football, what are you going to miss the most?

Deacon Townsend: “Obviously, I’m going to miss the wins and all the great moments, but I think what I’ll miss most are the friendships I’ve made.

“A lot of my best friends played football, and I’ve been playing with some of them since fourth or fifth grade.

“Some of my favorite memories aren’t even from games. They’re from practices, team dinners and breakfasts the next morning. Just being around those guys and spending time together is something I’ll always remember.

“Those guys really are my best friends, and football is what brought us together.

“The wins were cool. The interceptions were cool. Hearing the crowd get loud was cool. But when I look back, it’s the friendships I made and the coaches who supported me that I’m going to miss the most.

“I’ve had so many people show me love and support just because I played football. I’ll never forget the friendships and relationships I’ve built, all because I decided to sign up and play football when I was a kid.”

Adrian 42 Ypsi Community 0

Sparta 24 Allendale 6

Almont 28 Macomb Lutheran North 27

Petoskey 35 Alpena 0

Dexter 40 Ann Arbor Skyline 27

Berkley 25 Avondale 18 (OT)

Fowler 53 Bath 0

Portage Central 61 Battle Creek Central 19

Midland Dow 57 Bay City Central 18

Frankenmuth 41 Bay City John Glenn 14

Bay City Western 27 Traverse City Central 21

Northville 30 Belleville 7

Durand 50 Birch Run 28

Harper Woods 47 Birmingham Seaholm 7

Dundee 34 Blissfield 14

Bloomfield Hills 54 Troy 28

Byron Center 56 Grand Rapids Union 0

East Kentwood 49 Caledonia 27

New Boston Huron 35 Carleton Airport 14

Lowell 41 Cedar Springs 30

New Lothrop 56 Chesaning 34

Clare 48 Midland Bullock Creek 35

Clinton 30 Ida 22

Macomb Dakota 31 Chip Valley 23

Coldwater 42 Battle Creek Pennfield 22

Coopersville 56 Greenville 14

Dearborn Divine Child 27 U of D Jesuit 0

Dearborn Fordson 35 Canton 13

Hartland 68 Crestwood 34

Detroit Cass Tech 67 Detroit Renaissance 0

Dewitt 44 Holt 0

Ottawa Lake Whiteford 72 Erie Mason 0

Beal City 56 Evart 7

Milford 35 Farmington 13

Flat Rock 49 Milan 12

Davison 49 Flint Carman Ainsworth 14

Holly 63 Flint Kearsley 34

Flint Powers Catholic 42 Alma 18

Freeland 28 Essexville Garber 9

Gibraltar Carlson 31 Woodhaven 28

Goodrich 49 Corunna 7

Grand Blanc 55 Saginaw United 8

Grand Haven 41 West Ottawa 40

Grand Rapids Christian 29 Grand Rapids West Catholic 28 (OT)

South Christian 55 Forest Hills Central 21

Forest Hills Northern 21 Reeths Puffer 19

Kenowa Hills 63 Harper Creek 7

Grand Rapids Catholic Central 42 Ottawa Hills 12

Traverse City St Francis 53 Grayling 0

Grosse Pointe North 43 Sterling Heights 0

Grosse Pointe South 42 Utica Eisenhower 6

Forest Hills Eastern 36 Hamilton 25

Hanover Horton 52 Leslie 28

Hastings 64 Jackson Northwest 44

Hudson 47 Hillsdale 0

Comstock Park 51 Holland 21

East Grand Rapids 36 Holland Christian 21

Berrien Springs 35 Hopkins 0

Houghton 12 Gladstone 7

Howell 14 Brighton 13

Hudsonville 63 Jenison 0

Zeeland West 36 Hudsonville Unity Christian 0

Imlay City 22 Yale 9

Lansing Sexton 59 Ionia 0

Iron Mountain 41 L’Anse 0

Ithaca 48 Saginaw Valley Lutheran 7

Jackson 43 Ypsilanti Lincoln 21

Jackson Lumen Christi 43 Toledo St Francis De Sales 28

Kalamazoo Hackett Catholic Prep 28 Coloma 7

Kent City 64 Central Montcalm 12

Kingsley 55 Boyne City 12

Laingsburg 55 Perry 12

Lake Fenton 59 Clio 28

Lake Odessa Lakewood 28 Lansing Catholic 16

Clarkston 56 Lake Orion 21

Haslett 65 Lansing Eastern 18

Grand Ledge 46 Lansing Everett 7

Lincoln Park 40 Dearborn Edsel Ford 21

Fenton 49 Linden 42

Livonia Churchill 35 Walled Lake Central 0

North Farmington 26 Livonia Stevenson 7

Ludington 42 Hart 6

Marquette 49 Gaylord 13

Michigan Center 22 Grass Lake 14

Middleville Thornapple Kellogg 41 Grand Rapids Northview 14

Midland 35 Lapeer 0

Monroe 49 Ann Arbor Pioneer 35

Monroe Jefferson 36 Grosse Ile 0

North Muskegon 35 Montague 20

Montrose 42 Ovid Elsie 14

Pontiac Notre Dame Prep 53 Mount Clemens 0

Muskegon Mona Shores 44 Muskegon 21

Muskegon Oakridge 22 Whitehall 16

Muskegon Orchard View 19 Fremont 16

Napoleon 50 Brooklyn Columbia Central 15

Big Rapids 54 Newaygo 13

Vicksburg 37 Niles 21

Plymouth 55 Novi 30

Gladwin 26 Ogemaw Heights 20

Okemos 45 Lansing Waverly 12

Olivet 37 Charlotte 7

Detroit Catholic Central 27 Orchard Lake St Marys 20

Oscoda 47 Tawas 20

Paw Paw 42 Otsego 13

Ortonville Brandon 48 Owosso 20

Marshall 35 Parma Western 12

Chelsea 57 Pinckney 14

Sturgis 21 Plainwell 19

Portage Northern 58 Kalamazoo Central 29

Portland 49 Eaton Rapids 7

Armada 16 Richmond 14

Monroe St Mary Catholic Central 27 Riverview 14

Rochester 34 Troy Athens 14

Rochester Adams 23 Stoney Creek 14

Rockford 49 Grandville 0

Roseville 20 Anchor Bay 15

Saginaw Heritage 37 East Lansing 22

Saginaw Swan Valley 62 Bridgeport 8

Salem 15 Westland John Glenn 8

Saline 42 River Rouge 21

Millington 42 Sandusky 14

Pewamo Westphalia 38 Saranac 12

Cadillac 56 Sault Ste Marie 12

Schoolcraft 34 South Haven 21

South Lyon 21 South Lyon East 10

Trenton 43 Southgate Anderson 15

Springport 28 Union City 14

St Johns 43 Fowlerville 0

St Joseph 51 Redford Union 6

St Louis 58 Pinconning 0

Romeo 63 Sterling Heights Stevenson 21

Flushing 37 Swartz Creek 14

Taylor 34 Tecumseh 8

Edwardsburg 42 Three Rivers 21

Toledo Central Catholic 49 Brother Rice 27

Warren De La Salle 27 St Johns Jesuit 24

Traverse City West 31 Mount Pleasant 29

Ubly 36 Caro 14

Manchester 46 Vandercook Lake 9

Walled Lake Western 77 Walled Lake Northern 28

Waterford Kettering 40 Pontiac 0

Birmingham Groves 37 Waterford Mott 12

Spring Lake 28 Wayland 21

Oxford 51 West Bloomfield 7

Livonia Franklin 35 Lakeland 28

Mason 45 Williamston 14

Allen Park 35 Wyandotte Roosevelt 20

Godwin Heights 20 Belding 13

Zeeland East 55 Wyoming 0

One of the players to watch for the Mavericks this year is offensive lineman Ben Vanderlist, who is looking to make the most of his senior year and soak in every moment of his final season. Vanderlist has been around the Milford football program throughout high school and has worked his way into a leadership role as one of the team’s captains.

In this edition of Beyond the Game, Vanderlist talks about how he got into football, the lessons he has learned from the sport and what Milford football means to him.

Casey Campbell: You started playing football in seventh grade. What was it that made you want to give it a try?

Ben Vanderlist: “My dad played football throughout high school and in college, so I knew it was something I wanted to try. I also had a lot of friends at school who played.

“My first year, I played left guard, and I’ve been on the offensive line throughout my football career. I really just fell in love with the game. It was all new to me because I had never played flag football or any other level of football before.

“I started with the Milford Mustangs youth program in seventh grade. I loved it, and I really haven’t looked back since.”

Casey Campbell: Take me back to your first varsity game. What do you remember about that experience?

Ben Vanderlist: “It was my sophomore year in the first game of the season at home against Waterford Kettering. I was splitting reps with another guy at left guard, so there was a position battle going on that I eventually ended up winning.

“That was really my first taste of varsity football, and it was definitely a lot faster-paced than freshman football. I remember that game pretty vividly. We ended up winning, and it was a great experience.

“The rest of the offensive line that year was all seniors, so I also had a lot of great mentorship around me.”

Casey Campbell: What did you learn from those older guys when you first got to varsity?

Ben Vanderlist: “They definitely shaped me as a player. They pushed me to be the best I could be, and I feel like I try to do the same thing with my teammates now.

“That team was really bought in. Everybody cared, everybody wanted to win and they were all driven and motivated. Even when we were down, nobody really got down on themselves. It was always, ‘We’ve got to keep going. We’ve got to keep doing what we’re doing.’

“I see a lot of those guys in myself now, especially with how they approached the game and pushed the people around them.”

Casey Campbell: Compared to where you guys were at this point last year, does it feel like a night-and-day difference this season?

Ben Vanderlist: “It definitely does. If you look at our offense last year compared to this year, there have been some pretty big changes, but there are also some things that have stayed the same. I feel like everything has meshed together really well.

“Our team understands each other and how we need to practice during the week to perform on Friday. Last year, we had some hiccups during the week that could lead to a rough game, but I think we’ve gotten better at that.

“We’ve also done a really good job of battling through adversity. If an onside kick goes the wrong way or we have a bad play, we’re able to put it behind us, bounce back and keep playing.”

Casey Campbell: You guys are 5-1 and heading into the final part of the regular season. How are things going with the team right now?

Ben Vanderlist: “Things are going great. The team morale is really high, and I think our team is really connected and has bonded well together.

“We have high hopes for the rest of the season, and we’re confident going into these next few games. At the same time, we know we have to keep working hard and stay locked in.

“These next few games are important for us, especially with what they could mean for the postseason, so we know we still have a lot of work to do.”

Casey Campbell: You’ve taken on a bigger leadership role as one of the captains this year. What has that experience been like for you?

Ben Vanderlist: “I’ve really enjoyed it. There are a lot of responsibilities that come with being a captain, and I think it’s helped me mature and come out of my shell more.

“I have to be able to talk to the team, make sure guys are doing the right things and speak up when something needs to be said. These guys are my friends, but there are also times when I have to tell them, ‘Hey, you can’t do that.’

“It’s also the little things, like being one of the last guys at practice and making sure everything is cleaned up. There’s a lot that comes with being a captain, but I’ve really grown to enjoy that responsibility.”

Casey Campbell: What are some of the biggest life lessons football has taught you?

Ben Vanderlist: “I’ve learned a lot from football, but one of the biggest things is perseverance. In the weight room during the offseason, I’ve seen how being consistent and continuing to put in the work can pay off.

“There are days when I don’t want to lift or work out, but I’ve learned to put my head down and keep going. The coaches have also pushed me to be better and keep improving.

“Once football is over, I’m going to have to do that for myself. I want to keep working out, so I have to be able to push myself and hold myself accountable to be the best person I can be.”

Casey Campbell: What has Head Coach Andrew Micovich meant to you during your time in the program at Milford?

Ben Vanderlist: “He’s meant a lot to me. Him and all the other coaches have really helped me throughout my time playing football. There are hard times, and it’s not always sunshine and rainbows, but through all of that, I’ve learned to understand him, and I’m sure he’s learned to understand me, too.

“We can still crack some jokes before a game and have fun with it. He’s a great coach, and I really don’t think I’d be where I am right now without him.

“My position coach, Nick Landry, has also meant a lot to me. All of the coaches who have helped me along the way have put me in a great position to succeed. They’ve helped make me a better person, not just a better football player.”

Casey Campbell: With the end of your senior season getting closer, how are you feeling knowing that your time in the program is eventually going to come to an end?

Ben Vanderlist: “It’s a really weird feeling. I’ve been with the program since I was a freshman, and I’ve watched all the seniors before me leave. You never really think it’s going to be you, and now I don’t feel like I’m old enough for it to be my turn.

“It’s made me think more about how I want people to remember me and what kind of legacy I want to leave behind.

“I’ve really shifted my mindset to making the most of every play because I know I don’t have many left. I’m just trying to enjoy the rest of the season because this could be some of the last football I ever play.

“I want to make the best memories I can, take it all in and really enjoy it.”

Casey Campbell: What does the Milford football program mean to you?

Ben Vanderlist: “It means so much to me. Our first home game was youth night, and seeing all the kids in the youth program reminded me of when my friends and I were in their position. In a few years, those kids are going to be where we are now.

“I remember going to games when I was younger, watching those players and wanting to be like them. Now, knowing there could be a kid out there who looks at our team the same way pushes me to be the best role model I can be.

“There’s also such a big sense of community around the program. Going downtown for the homecoming parade and seeing all the support for Milford football was awesome. It really means a lot to be a part of it.”

One of the players to watch for the Hornets this year is linebacker and running back Parker Friess, who is currently in his senior year with the Williamston program. Friess grew up around Williamston football, watching his older brother play and attending games as a kid. Now, he gets to play on the same field he grew up watching from the stands. With his senior season underway, Friess is trying to enjoy every moment before his time with the program comes to an end.

In this edition of Beyond the Game, Friess talks about growing up around football, the lessons the game has taught him and how much the Williamston football program means to him.

Casey Campbell: You’re in your senior year now, and you grew up around Williamston football. What is it like knowing your time with the program is starting to wind down?

Parker Friess: “I’d say it’s kind of scary because Williamston is all I’ve known. I grew up in Williamston, played Williamston youth football and now I’m playing Williamston High School football.

“I grew up going to all the games and watching the team when I was younger, and I always wished I could be out on that field. It’s crazy because now I’m the one out there, and it’s about to be over soon.

“It’s definitely a little scary, but I’m very grateful that I got to grow up in this town and have the opportunity to play for Williamston football.”

Casey Campbell: You play linebacker and running back. Have you always played on both sides of the ball?

Parker Friess: “I’ve always played defense. When I was younger, I was a little bigger, so I was always on the line. We had a weight limit in youth football, and I remember having to cut like five or 10 pounds if I wanted to run the ball.

“It wasn’t really until seventh or eighth grade when I started getting more athletic and was able to run the ball. That’s when I really started to love the offensive side of football.

“But I’ve always loved defense. I think defense is my thing.”

Casey Campbell: As you’ve gotten more experience at the varsity level, where do you think you’ve grown the most as a player?

Parker Friess: “I think I’ve mostly grown as a leader and with the mental side of the game. I used to kind of shy back and let everyone else do the talking and take on those leadership roles.

“But I feel like I really stepped into that role last year, especially being one of the only juniors starting. I felt like I had a spot on the team, and that really helped boost my confidence.

“I used to play kind of scared because I didn’t want to do something wrong. Now I just go out there, have fun, try to be a leader, and just play some football.”

Casey Campbell: Take me back to your first varsity start. Who was it against, and what do you remember most about that game?

Parker Friess: “It was my sophomore year against Lansing Catholic. I was starting at what we call our Wolf position, and I remember being really nervous because I had a lot of responsibility on the field.

“On one of their first drives, I was blitzing off the edge. I was going full go, the juices were flowing, and I thought I had a sack for sure. Their quarterback took one jab step, stepped up in the pocket, and made me miss pretty bad. Then he took off for like a 50-yard run.

“That was definitely a wake-up call. After that, though, I had a pretty good game. I think I ended up with around 10 tackles and started to figure things out.

“That was when I really realized varsity football was on a different level. I’d say that was definitely my welcome-to-varsity moment.”

Casey Campbell: Football can bring out a lot of different emotions. Why do you think the game means so much to you?

Parker Friess: “I’d say a lot of it is because you grow up playing with the same group of guys your whole life. It’s not easy to win a football game, and you only get nine guaranteed games in a season.

“You put so much time and work into the week just for one game. When you win, it’s like nothing else, but when you lose, it’s defeating. I think the time and effort that goes into football is unmatched.

“When you’re really close with the guys around you, the losses hurt even more because you want to succeed together. Last year, losing that playoff game to Goodrich was tough because I knew it was my last game with that group of guys. I grew up playing baseball, basketball, and football with a lot of them.

“It’s tough knowing you’re not going to play another high school sport or another game with guys who have been some of your best friends.”

Casey Campbell: You’ve talked about how important the people around you are. Where do you think that part of you comes from?

Parker Friess: “I’d say I definitely got it from my parents. They’re very, very great people.

“I think it’s good knowing you’re there for someone and can help them if they need something. They can lean on you, and hopefully, if they know you’re there for them, they’ll be there for you too.

“Having a good support group and good people in your life is important. You want to surround yourself with people like that.

“It gets said a lot, but treating others the way you want to be treated is true.”

Casey Campbell: What do you think is the biggest life lesson you’ve learned, whether through football or just life in general?

Parker Friess: “I’d say two that are pretty close are learning from your failures and making the most of your time.

“People don’t always realize it at the moment, but time flies by. If you don’t make the most of it, you might look back and think, ‘I wish I did this,’ or, ‘I wish I did that.’ Whether it’s with people, sports or anything else, I think making the most of your time can make you a happier and better person.

“I also think learning from your mistakes is huge. If everything goes right all the time, you’re never going to figure out what you need to work on or how you can get better.

“You can’t dwell on your failures because that’s only going to drag you down. If you can take something from a failure, even if it’s something small, you’re one step better than you were before.”

Casey Campbell: What is it like being part of the Williamston community and getting the chance to play football for this town?

Parker Friess: “It’s pretty amazing. Our community is really tight. Everyone kind of knows each other, and the town really cares about football.

“Coach Kersten was telling us the other day that people he coached 20 years ago still text him after games, and he still hears from former players all the time.

“People who graduated from Williamston still care about the program. They follow the team and they still love Williamston.

“Knowing how much people care about the program and about each other makes it pretty amazing to be a part of.”

Casey Campbell: What has your head coach Steve Kersten meant to you, not only as a coach, but as someone who’s been there for you over the years?

Parker Friess: “He’s been a really big mentor for me. He’s an easy guy to talk to, he’s very understanding and he’ll pretty much do anything for you. If you need something, he’ll always be there.

“He goes to great lengths to make you a better player and a better person. I remember back in seventh grade, he started talking to me and getting to know me. He really takes the time to build that relationship with you.

“It’s not just about football. He’s there for you outside of the game as a person, too. I’m very grateful and thankful for everything he’s done for me. I really can’t say enough good things about him.”

Casey Campbell: When you look back at everything you’ve gotten to experience with Williamston football, how fortunate do you feel to have been a part of it?

Parker Friess: “I think being in the spot I’m in has helped me realize how great the game really is and how many lessons you can learn from it.

“It’s also made me realize how lucky I am to have had these opportunities. I’m really fortunate to be where I am, and I think it’s helped me appreciate football and everything that comes with it a lot more.”

Casey Campbell: You’re one of the captains this year. What has it meant to you to have your teammates and coaches trust you with that role?

Parker Friess: “It means a lot to me, especially with how much I care about football and this team. To have my teammates and coaches trust me to help lead the team is a big honor.

“There are a lot of great players on our team who aren’t captains, so I’m grateful to have that opportunity.

“As a captain, people look up to you and follow your lead. It’s an honor to be someone the team can look to and to know that my teammates and coaches trust me in that role.”

Casey Campbell: With this being your senior year, how often do you think about your time playing Williamston football eventually coming to an end?

Parker Friess: “I’d say I think about it every day. I really do. If I’m dragging at practice or feeling like I don’t really want to go, I just remind myself, ‘It’s your senior year. You’re only going to get so many of these left.’

“So I try to make the most of it. It’s definitely scary knowing it’s almost over because football means a lot to me.

“But I’m grateful I’ve had the opportunity to do it. I wouldn’t want to do it any other way, with any other program or any other group of people.

“It’s obviously sad knowing it’s coming to an end, but making the most of the time I have left is the biggest thing.”

Allen Park 43 Flint Hamady 0

Greenville 31 Allendale 25

Almont 39 North Branch 19

Marquette 34 Alpena 21

Ann Arbor Gabriel Richard 62 Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook 18

Ann Arbor Pioneer 47 Ann Arbor Skyline 21

Imlay City 20 Armada 7

Avondale 21 Waterford Kettering 19

Battle Creek Harper Creek 38 Coldwater 19

Hastings 43 Battle Creek Pennfield 8

Bay City Central 30 Saginaw United 0

Hopkins 42 Belding 22

Belleville 55 Novi 6

Royal Oak 35 Berkley 23

Big Rapids 57 Grant 27

Birmingham Seaholm 49 Southfield A&T 34

Brother Rice 46 Toledo St Francis De Sales 19

Bay City John Glenn 63 Bridgeport 0

Brooklyn Columbia Central 63 Addison 8

Canton 22 Salem 20

Cass City 7 Caro 0

Kenowa Hills 44 Cedar Springs 19

Chelsea 49 Ypsi Community 14

Clarkston 64 West Bloomfield 8

Lake Fenton 53 Corunna 50

Davison 46 River Rouge 22

Brighton 28 Dearborn 27

Dearborn Divine Child 27 Toledo St Johns Jesuit 6

Woodhaven 49 Dearborn Edsel Ford 0

Detroit Cass Tech 65 Detroit Western 0

Detroit Country Day 53 Detroit Loyola 0

Detroit King 42 Detroit East English 6

Bedford 38 Dexter 35

Montrose 44 Durand 22

East Grand Rapids 62 Grand Rapids Northview 45

East Kentwood 31 Rockford 10

Dewitt 48 East Lansing 7

Olivet 42 Eaton Rapids 0

Edwardsburg 35 Plainwell 0

Saginaw Swan Valley 42 Essexville Garber 14

Fenton 63 Flint Kearsley 0

Riverview 59 Flat Rock 42

Saginaw Heritage 49 Flint Carman Ainsworth 0

Pewamo Westphalia 34 Fowler 28 (2OT)

Alma 25 Freeland 21

Fruitport 39 Holland 14

Goodrich 56 Owosso 12

Grand Ledge 44 Lansing Waverly 0

Grand Rapids Catholic Central 27 Thornapple Kellogg 7

South Christian 49 Wyoming 8

Grand Rapids West Catholic 42 Spring Lake 31

Caledonia 33 Grandville 28

Grass Lake 48 Vandercook Lake 7

Grosse Ile 44 Carleton Airport 16

Marysville 28 Grosse Pointe North 25

Wayland 34 Hamilton 30

Kingsford 35 Hancock 6

Harper Woods 47 Waterford Mott 12

St Johns 28 Haslett 14

Ithaca 48 Hemlock 0

Hudsonville 33 Holland West Ottawa 32 (OT)

Holly 30 Flushing 29

Okemos 37 Holt 20

Calumet 34 Houghton 13

Howell 28 Hartland 27 (OT)

Hudsonville Unity Christian 51 Forest Hills Christian 37

Ida 43 Dundee 13

Charlotte 42 Ionia 22

Jackson Lumen Christi 45 U of D Jesuit 10

Marshall 51 Jackson Northwest 22

Grand Haven 34 Jenison 22

Kalamazoo Hackett Catholic Prep 7 Schoolcraft 0

Kalamazoo Loy Norrix 12 Mattawan 6

Portland 49 Lansing Catholic 14

Williamston 33 Lansing Eastern 25

Lake Odessa Lakewood 43 Lansing Sexton 20

Grand Blanc 49 Lapeer 8

Livonia Franklin 31 Livonia Churchill 17

Lowell 71 Lansing Everett 18

Ludington 29 Montague 13

Grosse Pointe South 28 Macomb Dakota 21

Port Huron 29 L’Anse Creuse North 14

Macomb Lutheran North 42 Richmond 14

Madison Heights Bishop Foley 37 Mount Clemens 12

Manchester 80 Leslie 35

Marine City 49 Hazel Park 28

Mason 46 Fowlerville 6

Midland Bullock Creek 40 Gladwin 7

Midland Dow 52 Traverse City West 24

Milford 35 North Farmington 3

Millington 49 Reese 0

Monroe 36 Jackson 24

Monroe St Mary Catholic Central 50 Milan 0

Mount Pleasant 42 Bay City Western 20

Chesaning 70 Mt Morris 9

Muskegon 30 Forest Hills Northern 7

Mona Shores 29 Byron Center 28

Reeths Puffer 35 Grand Rapids Union 6

Napoleon 48 Michigan Center 7

Anchor Bay 38 St Clair Shores Lakeview 20

Monroe Jefferson 36 New Boston Huron 21

New Lothrop 49 Ovid Elsie 14

North Muskegon 19 Manistee 8

Dearborn Fordson 14 Northville 10

Birmingham Groves 20 Oak Park 18

Ogemaw Heights 60 Standish Sterling 0

Onsted 42 Hillsdale 27

Ortonville Brandon 36 Clio 30

Birch Run 20 Lakeville Memorial 14

Oxford 15 Rochester Adams 14

Parchment 35 Coloma 29

Cadillac 20 Parma Western 12

Petoskey 42 Gaylord 21

Crestwood 43 Plymouth 37

Utica 47 Port Huron Northern 13

Portage Central 56 Battle Creek Lakeview 7

St Joseph 64 Portage Northern 28

Springport 61 Reading 8

Reed City 42 Newaygo 7

Stoney Creek 41 Rochester 14

Romeo 35 Chip Valley 0

Frankenmuth 42 Summit Academy North 14

Nouvel Catholic Central 51 Carrollton 8

Saline 61 Ann Arbor Huron 0

Sanford Meridian 42 Harrison 14

Shepherd 34 Clare 28

South Lyon East 20 Farmington 12

Gibraltar Carlson 48 Southgate Anderson 14

Coopersville 35 Sparta 0

Paw Paw 39 Sturgis 0

Linden 57 Swartz Creek 33

Adrian 15 Tecumseh 14

Niles 41 Three Rivers 10

Traverse City Central 21 Midland 14

Trenton 66 Taylor 36

Lake Orion 49 Troy 7

Troy Athens 53 Bloomfield Hills 14

Sterling Heights Stevenson 33 Utica Eisenhower 17

Vicksburg 41 Otsego 0

Livonia Stevenson 43 Walled Lake Northern 12

Walled Lake Western 54 Walled Lake Central 6

Orchard Lake St Marys 42 Warren De La Salle 6

Roseville 46 Warren Mott 7

South Lyon 48 Lakeland 7

Whitmore Lake 54 Livonia Clarenceville 6

Wyandotte Roosevelt 64 Lincoln Park 60

Comstock Park 34 Wyoming Kelloggsville 15

Croswell Lexington 23 Yale 21

Pinckney 20 Ypsi Lincoln 7

Zeeland West 48 Zeeland East 14

One of the players leading the way for the Falcons this season is quarterback Colin O’Connor. O’Connor is in his first year at East Kentwood after spending most of his life in Orange County, California. He also took on the challenge of replacing Kayd Coffman, who is now playing college football at Michigan State.

In this edition of Beyond the Game, we talk with O’Connor about his journey from California to Michigan, what he has learned about high school football in West Michigan, adjusting to a new school, making new friends, and much more.

Casey Campbell: Now that you’re five games into the season, how are you feeling about how things have gone, and what has stood out to you the most?

Colin O’Connor: “I feel really good. I’m really excited for what’s to come, and these first five games have been a lot of fun.

“I think the biggest thing I’ve noticed is the atmosphere around the games. At EK, they pack the stands, and there’s so much support. It just matters so much to people.

“That’s probably been the biggest surprise for me — seeing how much people care about the program and everything that surrounds each game.”

Casey Campbell: Going back to when you first made the move, what was it like leaving California, coming to Michigan and starting over with a new team?

Colin O’Connor: “Honestly, I’m someone who really likes change. I like switching things up, looking at things from a different perspective and trying something new. I don’t like doing the same thing all the time.

“I think it’s cool getting to see the different dynamics of teams and conferences. Playing at EK, we obviously have a really challenging schedule with some of the best teams in the state.

“I couldn’t be more excited to play with a new team and try to do something that EK hasn’t done yet, like win a state championship. Our coaching staff came in a couple of years ago, and we’re still looking to win the conference, too. I’m really excited about those challenges.”

Casey Campbell: Before making the move to Michigan, you spent most of your life in Orange County, California. What was it like growing up there?

Colin O’Connor: “I was actually born in Las Vegas and lived there for a short time. My mom’s family is from Southern California, so I spent pretty much my whole life in Orange County. I love it there, and it definitely has a special place in my heart.

“I started playing youth football when I was five and played my first tackle season when I was six. A lot of my best friends came from that youth football team. We played together from around six to 12 years old, and I still talk to them to this day. Every time I go back, I try to see them and hang out.

“The last time I was there, my friends and I rented jet skis and went out on the water. It was super cool.

“I feel really lucky for the experiences I had growing up there. I got to hang out with my friends, play youth sports, go to the beach, have fun and just be a kid.”

Casey Campbell: You mentioned that you started playing football at a young age. Where did your love for the game come from?

Colin O’Connor: “I always loved sports when I was younger. At recess, I loved playing soccer, kickball or whatever it was. I was always really competitive.

“When I was five, my dad got me into a flag football league. I remember thinking, ‘This is the coolest thing ever.’ I just loved football.

“The next year, when I was six, I played my first tackle season. That’s when I met a lot of my good friends, and I remember thinking, ‘This feels like what I want to do.’ I was with all my buddies, we were having a good time and I loved playing football. It just felt right.

“It probably helped that I was a Seahawks fan and they were doing really well at the time. They had just come off a Super Bowl and were playing for another one. I think that helped build my love for the game. I just loved the sport.”

Casey Campbell: Going back to your first varsity start, what do you remember about that game, and what was going through your mind?

Colin O’Connor: “It was my sophomore year, I think around Week 4. Our starter got hurt, so I got the opportunity to go in.

“We were playing a team outside our conference, and we ended up beating them pretty good. But honestly, I didn’t play very well.

“Our first drive went really well. I had a couple of solid completions, and we marched down the field and scored. I was hyped after that, and I think I got a little too high. Then I threw an interception and fumbled, so I walked away from the game not feeling great about how I played.

“I was definitely nervous going into it. I had played some varsity snaps before, but never in a situation where the team was really depending on me. That was a different kind of pressure.

“That game taught me a lot about staying composed. The first drive showed me I could do it, but I also learned not to get too high or too low. Even now, there are always going to be some nerves before a game. I’ve just learned how to use those nerves for me instead of against me.”

Casey Campbell: When you first came to Michigan, you were the new kid at a school where a lot of people had known each other for years. What was that adjustment like for you, especially trying to make new friends?

Colin O’Connor: “Socially, it’s never easy being the new kid when everybody knows everybody and a lot of them have been going to school together since kindergarten. But I really do mean it when I say I felt welcomed at EK.

“There were definitely times when it was challenging. I didn’t have that group of friends or that one person I had known forever that I could always fall back on.

“But I think getting out of my comfort zone was good for me. I got to meet a lot of new people, and it helped me learn how to fit in with different groups and make friends with people I didn’t grow up with.

“It was challenging at times, but I think it ended up being a really good experience for me and helped me grow as a person.”

Casey Campbell: Now that you’ve had a chance to play some games here, what differences have you noticed between high school football in Michigan and California?

Colin O’Connor: “Honestly, I get asked that a lot, but I think a lot of it is pretty similar.

“In California, you have teams like Mater Dei and Bosco, but outside of that, it’s really not that different. At the end of the day, we’re still playing the same game.

“Maybe we play some bigger schools here, but for the most part, there really hasn’t been a huge difference.”

Casey Campbell: After getting a chance to experience it for yourself, how would you describe high school football in West Michigan?

Colin O’Connor: “Probably intense. So many people care about their schools and their communities.

“You have people in Kentwood coming out to games even if they don’t necessarily have a connection to someone on the team. There’s so much community buy-in at all these different schools. You see the Byron Center community come out for their games, and we bring our community out, too.

“It feels more like community versus community rather than just two football teams playing each other. It means more than just football.

“That’s probably been the biggest difference and one of the biggest surprises for me.”

Casey Campbell: You played against some really good competition in California. How has that experience prepared you for the teams you’re facing here in Michigan?

Colin O’Connor: “Regardless of where you’re at, there are going to be dudes everywhere. There are going to be dudes in California, and there are going to be dudes in Michigan.

“Whether I’m playing Mater Dei or playing Rockford, Hudsonville or any of those teams, the mentality has to stay the same. I have to be at my best regardless of who we’re playing.

“There’s a lot of competition in our conference, and we have some pretty lofty goals as a team. We want to do some things that haven’t been done here in a while.

“For me, it’s about preparing to be at my best every week and doing as much as I can to give our team the best chance.”

Casey Campbell: Coming into East Kentwood, you were taking over for Kayd Coffman, who had a lot of success here. How did you deal with that pressure while still trying to be yourself?

Colin O’Connor: “Obviously, Kayd did a lot of really good things at East Kentwood and helped the program a lot.

“For me, I can only control what I can control. I have to be myself, play the way I play and help my teammates the best I can. I can’t be my best if I’m trying to be somebody else.

“I’m confident in who I am and what I bring to the table. I just try to be the best teammate I can be, encourage the guys around me, and get the most out of our team.

“We’re not the same team as last year. They did a lot of really good things, and there are some big shoes to fill, but we have a lot of guys who are willing to step up and fill those gaps.”

Casey Campbell: From a performance standpoint, how do you feel about the way things have gone for you and the team through the first five games?

Colin O’Connor: “I feel really good about how things have gone so far. We have amazing coaches who game plan really hard each week and put us in the best positions to be successful.

“We also have so much talent and so many weapons. Dallas Moody was out the last two weeks, and Ace Bryant stepped up and ran for around 100 yards in each game.

“We have so much depth that we can keep reloading and still be successful. I’m really excited to see where it goes.

Casey Campbell: As you’ve gotten older and gained more experience, what are some of the biggest lessons football has taught you about dealing with mistakes and adversity?

Colin O’Connor: “I’m definitely not perfect at it, but especially when I was younger, a bad practice could mess me up for the whole week. I would let those little bumps in the road really get to me.

“As I’ve gotten older, I’ve learned to focus more on what I can control. If I threw a pick on the last drive, I can’t go back and change it. It already happened.

“What I can control is how I handle myself on the next drive or the energy I bring to practice the next day instead of sitting there feeling bad about a mistake I already made.

“That’s something I’ve really worked on the last couple of years — controlling the controllables. If I’m stressing about things I have no control over, it’s only going to affect the things I can control.”

Casey Campbell: When you look at where this team is right now, what’s most important going forward?

Colin O’Connor: “I think the philosophy for us is just to finish. We’ve put ourselves in a good position up to this point, and the truth is, we’ve worked so hard to get here.

“We’ve been putting in the work since January, and it would be a letdown to not take advantage of all those hours we’ve put in.

“We know what we’re capable of, and we know we can go win. Now it’s about capitalizing on that and getting the most out of everything we’ve put into it.”

One of the players to watch for the Tigers this season is Quarterback Mason Henry, who has seen a lot of changes during his time playing Caro Football. Now in his senior year, he wants to make the most of this year and wants to continue the momentum that has been built over the last few years under head coach Ryan Love.

In this edition of Beyond The Game, we will talk about Henry’s journey as a quarterback, where his love for football came from, the lessons he's learned, and what it's been like being part of Caro Football.

Casey Campbell: So where did the love for football come from for you?

Mason Henry: I think it was really just picking up a ball and starting to play. I started playing football as soon as I could, which was around second grade.

I started with flag football, then moved into tackle football. We had a youth program back then from third through fifth grade. I also loved watching Matthew Stafford and the Lions play. I was a big Matthew Stafford fan and would watch his highlights all the time.

“In third and fourth grade, I played quarterback for the youth team, and that’s where I really started to love the sport and the position. I think starting young is what really made me fall in love with football. Watching Stafford and all those football highlights is what gave me the dream of playing football.

Casey Campbell: Do you remember your first varsity start? Where was it, and what do you remember from it?

Mason Henry: My first varsity snap was my sophomore year. We had an offense that was passing the ball, so I was pretty excited about it. We ended up getting Game of the Week against North Branch. At the time, North Branch was a hot team. It was Week 1 at home.

I remember before the game just sitting by myself, like, ‘Man, I’m really about to play varsity.’ I had my headphones in and was trying not to overthink it. When it came to game time, it was packed. I’d never seen Caro that packed. My very first pass was an interception.

People talk about their NFL moment, but this was like my varsity moment. It was a whole different level. I think it’s kind of ironic or funny that you throw a pick on your first play. But ever since then, you just build off that. You’ve got a lot to learn. We did lose that game, but North Branch was a good team that year.

Casey Campbell: When Coach Love came in last year, what did that do for the program?

Mason Henry: When Coach Love came in, there was definitely some doubt among my teammates and me. You can’t really blame us because we had been through a lot of coaching changes over the years. Even since I was in middle school, there had been constant coaching changes.

We were all kind of on our heels about it. We wanted to give our feedback because we had been through it before. It took some time to put our faith in Coach Love, especially with him being the new guy.

But seeing what he could do, being patient with him, and trusting the process ended up being the right thing to do. It led us to a winning season.

Casey Campbell: What was different about Coach Love that made you and your teammates start to believe in what he was doing?

Mason Henry: I think the biggest thing about Coach Love is just his demeanor. He wants to change the culture, and he’s really driven.

He’s stern and strict, but he’s also fun, too. When you have a coach like that, it’s easy to believe in him. That’s what we did, and we started to see things turn around.

Casey Campbell: Coming from a small town where everybody knows everybody, what did it mean to have the success you guys had last season?

Mason Henry: It meant a lot. A community like ours had been waiting for a season like that for a long time. When we got to the last game of the season, we wanted to make sure everybody was there to see us have a chance to win and solidify a winning season.

It’s special to have a community that wants to see you succeed as much as your team does. It meant a lot to us to be able to share that with them.

Casey Campbell: What’s it like being the starting quarterback at Caro High School, and how do you handle the pressure and responsibility that come with it?

Mason Henry: I think the older I get, the easier it is to handle because you just kind of get better at it. It’s a big role, but I don’t really think too much about it. You just go out there and do what you can do. But it’s special to play quarterback for Caro.

I just take it one step at a time and one play at a time. I visualize different situations and trust my teammates and coaches. I think it’s as simple as that. You just go out there and be an athlete. The pressure is going to come, but you’ve got to face it and work through it.

Casey Campbell: Before a game, do you like to get really fired up, or are you someone who likes to stay pretty calm?

Mason Henry: I think I go back and forth a little bit. I like to be calm before a game because, as a quarterback, you want to be a leader. Everybody sees what you do, and they reflect off that.

Being calm is my biggest thing and not getting too ramped up. But sometimes I do get pretty fired up. It depends on the opponent because sometimes you need that extra fire and motivation. So I kind of go back and forth with it.

Casey Campbell: With everything you have going on, how do you make time for yourself away from school and football?

Mason Henry: It gets pretty busy, so whenever I do get that time, I like to decompress and relax. I hang out with my family and do things with them. It helps me get my mind off everything and just live like a normal kid.

That definitely helps with the stress and pressure. It’s fun to have all the sports, work, and working out, but having that time with my family and friends gives me a chance to step away from everything for a little bit.

Casey Campbell: Knowing this is your last go at it, what’s your mindset during your senior season?

Mason Henry: The mindset is just to give it all I’ve got. It’s one last time to put it all on the line.

I think we want to build off how we finished last year and keep that motivation going for the kids in the grades below us. For me, the goal is just to give everything I have and go out on a good note.

One player to watch for Cadillac is wide receiver Barron Hellowell, who looks to make the most of his senior season as a Viking. This year, in his senior season, his wide receiver coach is Aden Gurden, whom Hellowell looked up to when Gurden played at Cadillac during the 2020 state championship run.

In this edition of Beyond the Game, we talk about Hellowell’s love for football and where it started. We also cover the lessons he learned from the game, what Cadillac Football has meant to him, and his desire to play at the next level.

Casey Campbell: Now that you’re about halfway through your senior season, how do you feel like things have gone so far?

Barron Hellowell: I think things have gone really well. Week 1 was a really good game. We battled the whole time, and then in Week 4, we went up to the U.P. and lost a tough one. Most recently, we had a big win on homecoming.

We could be 4-1 or 5-0, or we could be 2-3 or 1-4. We’ve just handled business, and that’s all that matters. I’m having a really good time and enjoying my senior year. There’s still a lot of work to do this season, but I’m having a lot of fun right now.

Casey Campbell: What has it been like knowing this is your final season playing high school football for Cadillac?

Barron Hellowell: I think that last game is going to be pretty sad. I’ve been playing with these guys since fifth grade, and they’re some of my best friends.

I know I’ll make new friends and build new relationships after high school, but leaving this part of my life behind will hurt. You can’t get high school football back. College football is different, and I don’t think anything really compares to playing with the guys you grew up with.

Casey Campbell: Going back to the beginning, what first got you interested in playing football?

Barron Hellowell: My dad always had SportsCenter on when I was growing up, and whatever sport was on the highlights, I wanted to go out and try it.

I started out playing flag football before moving into tackle football, and football was something I was always interested in from a young age.

Casey Campbell: As you got older and started playing more football, was wide receiver always the position you wanted to play?

Barron Hellowell: I always wanted to play receiver because I loved Calvin Johnson. He was my favorite Lions player growing up.

I actually started out on the offensive line when I was younger. Around sixth grade, I moved to tight end, and then in high school, I transitioned to receiver. It was always the position I wanted to play.

Casey Campbell: Take me back to your first varsity start. What do you remember most about that experience?

Barron Hellowell: It was my junior year at home against Midland. It was a really high-scoring game. I remember dropping a touchdown, but other than that, I thought I played pretty well.

I was definitely nervous, but I was excited at the same time. We had a great turnout, and the energy was unlike anything I'd experienced before. I just remember how exciting it was to finally be out there playing in that kind of atmosphere.

Casey Campbell: Growing up watching Cadillac football, who was someone you looked up to, and what has it been like having the chance to be coached by that same person now?

Barron Hellowell: Aden Gueden was always someone I looked up to. He was the quarterback when Cadillac went to the state championship, and then he went on to play defensive back in college.

Now he’s back at Cadillac as my wide receiver coach. When I saw his name on the coaching staff this year, I was really excited. It’s been really cool getting the chance to learn from someone I looked up to when I was younger.

Casey Campbell: You and your quarterback, Domenic Wing, are around each other a lot, whether it’s football, other sports, or just hanging out. What has it been like building that relationship with him?

Barron Hellowell: It’s been awesome. We play the same three sports, so I’m around him all the time. We have classes together, and we hang out outside of sports, too.

We’re both really competitive, so we definitely get mad at each other sometimes, but five or 10 minutes later, we’re good again. He’s one of my best friends, and it’s been great having someone like that alongside me.

Casey Campbell: There will always be highs and lows throughout a football season. How have you learned to handle those moments?

Barron Hellowell: I’ve learned to stay pretty level mentally and not let myself get too high or too low.

When things don’t go well, I try not to get too down on myself. When they do, I’ll enjoy it for a day, but then it’s about getting back to work and focusing on the next week.

Casey Campbell: Along with football, you also play basketball and baseball. What has it been like balancing all three sports?

Barron Hellowell: It can definitely be tough, especially going into the winter because football is such a big part of my life, and I still have football stuff going on.

Then I’m also balancing basketball, the weight room, and practice. But I’ve been doing it my whole life. I’ve always played three sports, so I’m used to it.

Casey Campbell: You’ve talked about wanting to continue playing football after high school. When did playing at the college level become something you wanted to pursue?

Barron Hellowell: I always knew I wanted to play a sport in college. At first, I thought it would be baseball. I was going through the baseball recruiting process when I got invited to a football camp. I went, performed pretty well, and ended up getting my first football offer.

After that, I started focusing more on football. I started putting myself out there on X and going to camps over the summer. I got into the recruiting process a little later because I was focused on baseball at first, but I wouldn’t change it. Everybody has a different path.

Casey Campbell: Now that you’ve had a chance to experience the recruiting process, what has it been like for you?

Barron Hellowell: Some days, it feels like the best thing in the world, and other days, you can feel confused or lost. But overall, it’s been going really well.

It’s been fun learning how everything works and building relationships with different coaches. There was a time when I wasn’t sure if I would get an opportunity to play at the next level, so I’m really grateful for the opportunities I have.

Casey Campbell: You’ve grown up around Cadillac and its football program. What has it been like having that community behind you throughout your career?

Barron Hellowell: It’s been awesome. I remember watching Cadillac make it to the state championship in 2020 and looking up to a lot of those guys.

The community has always been really supportive. No matter what our record is, people still show up for us. In a smaller community like Cadillac, you get to know a lot of people, and there’s a really strong connection.

Casey Campbell: You grew up going to the homecoming parade and watching the varsity players. What was it like being on the other side of that this year as one of those players?

Barron Hellowell: It was really cool. We had a float for the team, and we were handing out candy to the kids. When I was younger, my favorite part of the parade was getting candy from the varsity football players.

Now we’re the ones throwing out little foam footballs, telling the kids to come to the game and seeing some of them afterward. You just try to make their night and give them that same experience.

Casey Campbell: You were once one of those kids looking up to the varsity players. What does it mean knowing there could be kids in Cadillac looking up to you the same way now?

Barron Hellowell: It’s awesome because every high school football player was once that kid watching from the stands. When I was younger, getting to meet a varsity player could make my whole week.

I hope some of those kids grow up and play for Cadillac someday and remember me as someone they looked up to. That would mean a lot to me.

Casey Campbell: As you get further into your senior year and some of those “lasts” start to come around, how are you trying to take everything in?

Barron Hellowell: I’m just trying to take it all in and go step by step without getting too far ahead of myself. I’ve already had my last first day of school, my last homecoming and my last first football game.

It’s definitely sad because it still doesn’t feel real. I know once I graduate, there are going to be times when I wish I could come back and do it all one more time.

Casey Campbell: When you look back at the role football has played in your life, what does the game mean to you?

Barron Hellowell: It means a lot to me. Football has been a big part of my life for as long as I can remember, and it’s become my favorite sport.

I love watching college football at every level and watching the NFL. I still enjoy baseball and basketball, but football has become a big piece of who I am. It’s a sport I just love so much.

Adrian 49 Ypsi Lincoln 6

Ida 41 Adrian Madison 20

Allen Park 41 Lincoln Park 22

Saginaw Swan Valley 48 Alma 28

Flint Powers Catholic 21 Alpena 18

Dearborn Divine Child 35 Ann Arbor Father Gabriel Richard 14

Ann Arbor Pioneer 34 Ann Arbor Huron 20

Pewamo Westphalia 59 Bark River Harris 14

Portage Northern 42 Battle Creek Lakeview 25

Mt Pleasant 55 Bay City Central 14

Berkley 28 Waterford Kettering 7

Big Rapids 29 Remus Chippewa Hills 0

Harper Woods 41 Birmingham Groves 13

Bloomfield Hills 28 West Bloomfield 20

Orchard Lake St Marys 48 Brother Rice 20

Brighton 41 Dearborn Heights Crestwood 14

Woodhaven 34 Wyandotte Roosevelt 14

Byron Center 48 Muskegon 20

Cadillac 22 Petoskey 20

Caledonia 13 Hudsonville 7

Belleville 44 Canton 6

Monroe St Mary Catholic Central 26 Carleton Airport 13

Ithaca 67 Carrollton 0

Lansing Sexton 30 Charlotte 6

Chelsea 56 Dexter 21

Chesaning 28 Birch Run 22

Clarkston 31 Oxford 28

Goodrich 49 Clio 7

Coldwater 47 Jackson Northwest 27

Schoolcraft 29 Coloma 13

Corunna 28 Owosso 7

Armada 14 Croswell Lexington 6

Dearborn 31 Westland John Glenn 14

Dearborn Fordson 38 Salem 13

Detroit Cass Tech 20 Detroit King 7

Detroit Country Day 17 U of D Jesuit 3

Hudson 48 Dundee 3

Grand Rapids Catholic Central 28 East Grand Rapids 18

East Kentwood 37 Jension 6

Lansing Catholic 26 Eaton Rapids 21

Elkton Pigeon Bay Port Laker 45 Caro 14

Farmington 29 Livonia Stevenson 7

Fenton 54 Holly 30

Flushing 28 Linden 20

Fowlerville 34 Lansing Eastern 6

Frankenmuth 42 Freeland 7

Zeeland East 43 Garden City 7

Gaylord 51 Sault St Marie 6

Gladwin 14 Clare 13

Grand Blanc 24 River Rouge 12

Grand Ledge 56 Holt 32

Kenowa Hills 50 Allendale 0

Belding 35 Northpointe Christian 26

Grand Rapids Northview 17 Holland Christian 13

South Christian 19 Zeeland West 16

Forest Hills Northern 37 Grand Rapids Union 0

West Catholic 22 Hamilton 14

Grandville 32 West Ottawa 28

Cedar Springs 52 Greenville 12

Hanover Horton 49 Brooklyn Columbia Central 48

Hastings 30 Parma Western 22

North Muskegon 43 Hesperia 7

Clinton 50 Hillsdale 6

Reed City 40 Howard City Tri County 34

Almont 37 Imlay City 20

Toledo Central Catholic 49 Jackson Lumen Christi 7

Manchester 52 Jonesville 22

Portage Central 43 Kalamazoo Loy Norrix 0

Portland 23 Lakewood 20

Rochester Adams 21 Lake Orion 17

Lansing Waverly 48 Lansing Everett 14

Leslie 41 Grass Lake 22

Milford 46 Livonia Churchill 10

Coopersville 14 Lowell 13

Traverse City West 36 Midland 7

Midland Bullock Creek 39 Standish Sterling 0

Grosse Ile 40 Milan 21

Monroe Jefferson 28 Flat Rock 26

Montrose 56 Lakeville Memorial 36

Traverse City St Francis 42 Mt Pleasant Sacred Heart 14

Ludington 35 Muskegon Oakridge 14

Mona Shores 42 Reeths Puffer 13

New Lothrop 48 Mt Morris 6

Grant 32 Newaygo 18

Niles 48 Sturgis 20

Macomb Lutheran North 35 North Branch 34 (OT)

North Farmington 44 South Lyon 38 (OT)

Hartland 41 Novi 6

Birmingham Seaholm 21 Oak Park 20

East Lansing 33 Okemos 12

Olivet 58 Ionia 16

Ortonville Brandon 43 Lake Fenton 42

Edwardsburg 40 Otsego 28

Ovid Elsie 30 Durand 27

Paw Paw 42 Plainwell 14

Northville 49 Plymouth 14

New Boston Huron 64 Riverview 56

Rochester 37 Troy 3

Rockford 49 Grand Haven 12

Romeo 28 Grosse Pointe South 26

Roseville 46 Port Huron Northern 0

Saginaw Hertiage 49 Lapeer 14

Nouvel Catholic Central 22 Saginaw Michigan Lutheran Seminary 21

Davison 68 Saginaw United 6

Saginaw Valley Lutheran 42 Hemlock 0

Saline 42 Monroe 6

Sanford Meridian 36 Cranbrook 29

Shepherd 14 Ogemaw Heights 12

South Lyon East 31 Livonia Franklin 14

Waterford Mott 17 Southfield A&T 14

Sparta 20 Marshall 14

Spring Lake 23 Grand Rapids Christian 22

Marine City 57 St Clair 36

Grosse Pointe North 40 St Clair Shores Lake Shore 16

St Clair Shores Lakeview 29 Utica 28

Bay City John Glenn 75 St Clair Shores South Lake 0

Mason 21 St Johns 9

Chip Valley 21 Sterling Heights Stevenson 5

Gibraltar Carlson 48 Taylor 22

Tecumseh 49 Jackson 6

Temperance Bedford 49 Ann Arbor Skyline 0

Warren De La Salle 17 Toledo St Francis De Sales 2

Detroit Catholic Central 36 St Johns Jesuit 3

Midland Dow 30 Traverse City Central 27

Dewitt 49 Trenton 26

Stoney Creek 49 Troy Athens 10

Macomb Dakota 24 Utica Eisenhower 6

Vicksburg 26 Three Rivers 21

Walled Lake Central 35 Walled Lake Northern 34

Walled Lake Western 49 Lakeland 14

L’Anse Creuse North 42 Warren Cousino 0

Forest Hills Eastern 37 Wayland 27

Howell 43 Wayne Memorial 7

Whitehall 12 Montague 0

Williamston 27 Haslett 21

Forest Hills Central 42 Wyoming 6

Yale 12 Richmond 7

Ypsi Community 18 Pinckney 10

One player to watch is quarterback Gibson Rondy, who is in his senior year with the program. Rondy’s Father and Grandfather served as senior captains for this program, and now he is following in their footsteps as a senior captain himself.

But football hasn’t always been easy for Rondy.

After suffering an injury during his junior season and missing several weeks, he began to understand that he was more than a football player. Even when he couldn’t be on the field, he could still be a teammate, a friend, and a leader.

That perspective has carried into other parts of his life. Through Brady Hessbrook’s story and the work of the B4 Foundation, Rondy has seen the importance of mental health and understood that it’s okay to reach out when things aren’t going well.

As his final high school football season continues, Rondy is trying to enjoy the time he has left with the friends, coaches, family and community that have been part of his journey.

In this edition of Beyond the Game, we sit down with Rondy to talk about growing up around Ithaca football, becoming the quarterback he once dreamed of being, the lessons he has learned through adversity, and what he hopes to carry with him long after his playing days at Ithaca are over.

Casey Campbell: Outside of school and football, how would you describe yourself and your personality?

Gibson Rondy: I’d say I’m pretty chill. I like to just hang out most of the time. Hopefully my friends would say I’m pretty funny. I think our whole friend group is pretty funny.

I also really care about the people around me, and I think that helps me at the quarterback position, too.

Casey Campbell: How did football first start for you, and when did you realize it was something you wanted to pursue?

Gibson Rondy: Growing up in Ithaca, I basically got to grow up at Ford Field. We went there six of the eight years, from, I think, 2010 to 2017. I got to watch a lot of great quarterbacks come through the program, and I knew I wanted to be one of those guys someday.

My dad and grandpa were both captains in the Ithaca football program. At the end of every year, we get a book with the history of Ithaca football, and you can find both of their names in there. Now, I’ve been fortunate enough to be named a captain this year, so that means a lot to me.

Football is just kind of rooted in our family, and the whole team feels like a family, too. Growing up around the program and watching all of that, I always knew I wanted to be a part of it.

Casey Campbell: When you look back to when you first started playing football, what are some of those early memories that still stick with you?

Gibson Rondy: I’m going to go all the way back to when we were playing flag football. We got to play under the lights one time, and I remember how much fun that was.

Terry Hessbrook always used to say, ‘It’s an honor to play under those lights.’ I remember hearing that as a little kid and taking a lot of pride in it. Getting the chance to play out there was really special.

Then, when I got into youth tackle football and middle school, my dad coached my team, so it was really fun having that connection with him. My older cousin was also involved with the offense, so I got to have my family around while learning what it meant to be an Ithaca football player.

Casey Campbell: You grew up learning what it meant to be an Ithaca football player. When you finally got your first varsity start at quarterback, what do you remember about that moment?

Gibson Rondy: It was last year, my junior year, against St. Louis at home. I felt a little bit of pressure because Jackson Conn was the quarterback before me, and he was really good. All those quarterbacks I mentioned earlier were really good, too, so there was definitely some pressure going into it.

I remember our first drive. I threw a post to one of my teammates, and he took it for a touchdown. After that, it was kind of like, ‘All right, we’re going to be okay. We’ve got this.’

From there, I was able to settle in and just have fun.

Casey Campbell: You mentioned feeling some pressure when you first became the starting quarterback. Now that you’ve had some time in that role, what has it meant to you to be the quarterback at Ithaca?

Gibson Rondy: It’s definitely kind of hard to wrap your head around because, at the end of the day, I’m still just a high school kid.

I’m really trying to live in the moment and enjoy what’s left of my senior year of football. Sometimes that's hard when you start thinking about the program's history or the legacy you want to leave behind.

For me, it’s really about taking it one game at a time and enjoying everything that comes with it. I get to go out there with my best friends, with my family and the community behind us. That means a lot to me.

Casey Campbell: What’s it been like going through your senior year and getting to play it with a lot of the guys you’ve grown up with?

Gibson Rondy: It’s been a lot of fun. We have a big senior class, so getting to go out there on Friday nights with a group of guys I’ve grown up with my whole life is pretty special.

We’re always talking and cracking jokes with each other. Guys will come over and watch a movie, or somebody will text the group chat asking if anyone wants to hop on Fortnite.

I think having that connection off the field really helps us on the field, too. I know that gets said a lot, but I think it means something when you’ve known each other and played together for so long.

Casey Campbell: With Ithaca being such a small community, what’s it like when you’re out around town, and people recognize you or wish you good luck?

Gibson Rondy: It happens quite a bit. My game-day routine is going to Hearthstone Oven in Ithaca. I’m going to plug Hearthstone real quick — it’s the best breakfast spot in the state of Michigan.

I go there every Friday morning and get my meal. This past Friday, when I walked in, the guy behind me said, ‘Hey, go throw for 400 yards tonight.’ Then, when I was checking out, one of the workers wished me good luck.

It gives you a sense of pride. I think that’s part of the small-town pride we have here, and it’s a really cool feeling. You see the jerseys around town, people wish you good luck, and people recognize you. It means a lot knowing the community is behind you.

Casey Campbell: You’ve talked about the support you get from the community. What has Head Coach Jordan Hessbrook meant to you throughout your time at Ithaca?

Gibson Rondy: A lot. He’s been a big mentor for me, and I have a lot of trust in him. He and Coach Marcy run the offense, and I know they both trust me, too.

That’s one of the best feelings, being able to go out there on a Friday night knowing they trust you and that you can just play free. I think our whole offense feels that way.

I was just texting Coach Marcy about an article that came out, and we were joking around about it. I was also texting Coach J about a game-day visit I was on. Having that kind of relationship with both of them means a lot. They’ve both been great mentors and just great people.

That goes for our whole coaching staff, too. We have a new coach who came in this year, and it’s been cool to see how quickly he’s become part of the family. I think that says a lot about what it means to play and coach at Ithaca.

Casey Campbell: Going back to last year when you got hurt and had to miss some time, what did that experience teach you about yourself?

Gibson Rondy: The biggest lesson I learned came last year. In Week 2, we were winning pretty handily, and in the third quarter, I broke my ankle. I ended up missing four weeks, and even when I came back, it was still pretty sore and painful.

The biggest thing I learned was that I’m more than a football player. Even though I wasn’t playing, my teammates still cared about me. I was still the same person, and I could still be a leader and a good friend even if I wasn’t on the field.

At first, I was worried about missing out on that whole community aspect and being one of the faces of the program. But as those weeks went on, I realized everything was going to be all right.

That experience showed me that football is about more than what happens on the field. It’s about the friendships, the connections, the family and the community.

Casey Campbell: You’ve talked about how there’s more to life than football. What has Brady Hessbrook’s story and the B4 Foundation taught you about that?

Gibson Rondy: The biggest thing is understanding that you’re still a high school kid. You still have time to be a kid and have fun. Life isn’t always going to be easy. It’s not always going to be sunshine and rainbows.

What happened with Brady was a terrible tragedy, and being in Ithaca, we got to see the Hessbrook family go through that. To see how Terry has responded by helping others and sharing Brady’s story has been amazing.

We’ve heard that story as a football team and as a program. One of the biggest things I’ve learned from it is that if you’re going through something, it’s okay to reach out to somebody.

That message has become a big part of our community, and I think the B4 Foundation has done a great job of sharing it with other schools, too.

Casey Campbell: With everything you’ve learned along the way, what does it mean to you knowing there are younger kids in Ithaca who look up to you now?

Gibson Rondy: That’s a big goal of mine. When I was younger, there were guys I looked up to and wanted to be like.

Now that I’m in high school, sometimes you think, ‘I’m just some high school kid. It can’t mean that much.’ But I think it really does. After our last game, a couple of kids came up to me and asked me to sign a little plastic football. That was pretty cool.

It means a lot knowing those kids look up to us, and I want to be a good role model for them. Hopefully, seeing us play gives them a reason to stick with football and maybe one day get the chance to play on that same field.

Casey Campbell: When you’re having a rough day, what do you usually do to get your mind off things?

Gibson Rondy: If I’m having a bad day, I try to find joy in the little things. I think it’s important to have things you enjoy that you can turn to and that can pick your mood up a little bit.

For me, that might be throwing the football with my friends, hopping on Xbox, watching a YouTube video I like, or going hunting if it’s November.

Sometimes just doing one of those little things can help turn a rough day around.”

Casey Campbell: What do you think will stick with you most about being part of the Ithaca football program?

Gibson Rondy: That’s a great question. I think it’s something you probably don’t fully understand until you’re done playing, but I can already see it in some ways.

I was texting a former Ithaca quarterback who was giving me advice and sharing his experiences. I think that shows how connected this program is even after you graduate.

Our motto is, ‘Tradition never graduates.’ Players eventually leave, but the tradition stays, and you’re always going to be part of the program.”

Casey Campbell: When you look at everything football has taught you, what lessons do you think you’ll carry with you for the rest of your life?

Gibson Rondy: I think the biggest one would probably be the B4 Foundation and Brady Hessbrook. I can remember the week he passed like it was yesterday, and the Hessbrook family is one of the strongest families I know.

Seeing what they went through and how they responded, and now seeing Terry go out and share Brady’s story with schools across the state, has been really meaningful.

I’ve seen firsthand how important mental health is. It’s bigger than sports and bigger than whatever kind of day you’re having. You have a whole life ahead of you.

A lot of people are quiet when they’re struggling, but the Hessbrook family has helped show people that it’s okay to not be okay and that more people struggle than you might think.

They’ve taken a terrible tragedy and used the B4 Foundation to help other people. I’ve gotten to be part of things like the B4 5K, and when you understand why everyone is there, it means a lot. That’s something I’ll always carry with me.”

One of the players to watch for the Cavaliers this season is senior linebacker Ruger Zeeman, who returned from an injury to begin his final season.

The Zeeman name has become a familiar one around Corunna football, with Ruger’s two older brothers also coming through the program. Now, as the last Zeeman to put on a Cavaliers uniform, Ruger is looking to make the most of his senior season while leaving his own mark on the program.

But there is more to Zeeman than what happens on the football field. Growing up in Corunna, family has always been an important part of his life. Whether it’s football, hunting or simply spending time together, those relationships have helped shape the person he is today.

In this edition of Beyond the Game, we sit down with Zeeman to talk about growing up in Corunna, his love for football and hunting, the influence of his family, the experiences that have shaped him throughout his football career and what Corunna football means to him.

Casey Campbell: What has it been like growing up in Corunna, in a small, rural town, and how has that grounded you as a person?

Ruger Zeeman: I’d say you don’t have to deal with a lot of chaos. The biggest event in town will probably be a country concert happening down at the middle school, so there aren’t a lot of big events happening.

It’s always pretty safe. Parents don’t really have to worry a bunch about where you’re going. They’ll still ask questions and stuff, but it’s definitely been cool growing up in a rural town and then traveling to bigger cities.

Going to visit Dayne in Ann Arbor, I would hate to live there after growing up in a rural town. I feel like it would be really overwhelming.

Casey Campbell: You have a pretty unique first name. When you introduce yourself to someone, do people usually recognize where the name Ruger comes from?

Ruger Zeeman: Yeah. Being from Corunna, a lot of people are from out in the country, so they usually know what it is. Some people recognize it and say, ‘Oh, that’s really cool,’ or that it’s a pretty cool name.

It’s always funny seeing people’s reactions when they hear my name.

Casey Campbell: You mentioned growing up in Corunna, and hunting has also been a big part of your life. What is it about hunting that you enjoy the most?

Ruger Zeeman: Definitely spending time with family. If it’s not sports, going to church, or eating dinner, we don’t always get a lot of quality time together, so hunting gives us that opportunity.

With deer hunting, you’re also able to provide for your family. You don’t have to go out and buy as much meat, which is nice.

But for me, it’s really about getting everyone together. We go to deer camp, and we have a cabin where our uncles and siblings get together. We hang out, play cards and spend time with each other, and that’s not even including the hunting itself.

Casey Campbell: Staying with your family, where did your love for football come from?

Ruger Zeeman: It definitely came from my siblings and my parents. My dad played football in high school, so football has always been a big part of our family.

“Everybody on my dad’s side of the family played linebacker, including my dad and my siblings. So, it’s pretty cool that I’ve been able to play that position as well.

Casey Campbell: Speaking of your family’s connection to football, what was it like being part of Corunna’s run to the state finals with your older brother?

Ruger Zeeman: It’s definitely something I’ll always remember. Being part of that run with my older brother was really special, and it set the expectations high for what we wanted to accomplish.

Seeing how much hard work went into every practice showed me what it took to have that kind of success. It taught me how much work you have to put in to make a run like that.

Casey Campbell: As that playoff run continued, when did you realize how much it meant to the Corunna community?

Ruger Zeeman: At the beginning of the playoffs, I didn’t really realize it. But as we kept winning and going further, more people started showing up, and you could really see the community's support.

As we got deeper into the playoffs, it felt like the whole town was coming to the games. They even gave us a send-off before the state championship game, with police cars lining the road and fire trucks coming out.

It was pretty crazy to see that and realize just how much that run meant to the entire community.

Casey Campbell: The following season, you took on a bigger role with the varsity team and made another deep playoff run. What was that experience like for you?

Ruger Zeeman: Going into my sophomore year, I practiced with the varsity that summer, so I knew I was going to be with them for the whole season. That summer really helped me grow as a player.

Mr. Herrick helped me a lot. He stayed on me throughout practice and really worked with me at linebacker. He knew Dayne was going to be all set, so he focused a lot on me during practice, and that helped me grow throughout the year.

Being able to play the whole season without any injuries was also really fun. That year showed me how much work you have to put in during the week just to be ready for one game.

Casey Campbell: After experiencing that success early in your career, what did going through a more challenging season teach you?

Ruger Zeeman: It definitely taught me to push my teammates harder.

“Before that, I would push the guys I was around during practice, like the running backs, linebackers, and skill-position players, but I didn’t always do that with some of the other guys on the team.

It taught me to reach out to more of my teammates and push everyone to work harder.

Casey Campbell: What is one area of your game where learning from mistakes has helped you become a better player?

Ruger Zeeman: I’d definitely say pass blocking. I used to just go full force, put my head down and try to take someone out. I’d probably get about 75 percent of those blocks.

Later in the season, our offensive coordinator worked with me and told me to break down instead. You really only have to keep the defender in one place for about three seconds. I learned that doing that is more effective than always trying to knock someone off their feet.

Casey Campbell: You also went through your first significant injury. What was that experience and the recovery process like for you?

Ruger Zeeman: It was a full meniscus repair. If they had just cut it out, the recovery would have been shorter, but you also don’t know how your knee is going to hold up later in life.

It definitely helped that my brother had already gone through two knee surgeries. Seeing him go through that, come back, and still be able to play made things easier because I knew I wasn’t going through it alone.

He helped me through the process and told me what I needed to focus on. I also stayed close with my friends and tried to spend as much time with them as I could.

I never really got too down about it. I still showed up to all my sports and practices, but it was definitely hard watching my teammates practice and run around while I had to sit on the sidelines and watch.

Casey Campbell: Going through that recovery, what did it mean to have your family and friends there to support you?

Ruger Zeeman: It definitely showed me how many people were there for me. It was nice knowing I had people around me who had my back throughout the whole process.

Having my parents there for me through everything meant a lot, too.

Casey Campbell: How has going through that injury changed the way you look at your senior year and playing sports?

Ruger Zeeman: It definitely taught me to treat every moment like it could be my last and to be grateful for every practice and every game I get to be a part of.

I’m glad it happened when it did and that it wasn’t the end for me. Knowing I still had my senior year and all my sports to look forward to made the recovery a little easier.

Casey Campbell: Your older brothers both came through the Corunna football program. What does it mean to now be the last Zeeman playing for the Cavaliers?

Ruger Zeeman: I’m definitely excited about it. I’m happy my siblings can be there and watch me play. Now that my older brother has graduated, he can come back and watch some of my games, too.

It’s really cool having the whole family there and getting to share my final season with them.

Casey Campbell: To finish things off, what do Corunna football and the Corunna community mean to you?

Ruger Zeeman: It definitely feels like a close, tight-knit family. I really enjoy being around everyone in the community and having that support around us.

Driving through town and seeing all the people and businesses that support and sponsor the team means a lot. It shows how much people care about the team and sports here in Corunna.

Everybody is always willing to come out and show their support, and that means a lot to me.

The 2026 season also marks the return of Jacob Price to the program, as he is currently in his first year as head coach.

One player who has experienced the ups and downs of the program over the last few years is senior receiver Law Danek. From earning an opportunity on varsity as a sophomore to dealing with an injury and watching the program go through both successful and challenging seasons, Danek has experienced a lot during his time at Chesaning.

Now in his final season, Danek is looking to make the most of the time he has left playing high school football and finish his career on a memorable note.

In this edition of Beyond the Game, we sit down with Danek to talk about how his football journey began, overcoming being undersized, earning his first varsity opportunity, the people who have influenced him along the way and what it means to be playing his final season at Chesaning.

Casey Campbell: Now that you’re well into your senior season, what has it been like realizing this is your final year playing high school football?

Law Danek: It’s crazy. We have senior night coming up this week, and my whole high school career has just flown by. I can’t even put it into words.

We only have a few games left in the regular season, and then hopefully we can make the playoffs and keep it going. It’s just crazy to think about how quickly it’s all gone by.

Casey Campbell: Going back to where it all started for you, how did you first get into football?

Law Danek: It’s actually an interesting story. I always loved playing football. Growing up, I played in the backyard pretty much every day with my brother and my dad, just tossing the ball around.

Our football program didn’t start until seventh grade, and I didn’t play that year because my mom didn’t want me to. I was super small at the time, so I ended up doing cross country instead.

But all my friends were playing football, and it looked like so much fun. By eighth grade, I was begging my mom to let me play. I was still super small and undersized, but she finally let me.

I was probably one of the five shortest kids in my grade. I was around 5-foot-1 or 5-foot-2 and maybe 100 or 110 pounds. We would do hitting drills in practice, and I would always get beat up.

Over time, I just kept getting bigger and better, and eventually I got to where I am now.

Casey Campbell: A couple of years later, you went into your sophomore season expecting to play JV. How did you end up earning an opportunity to start on varsity?

Law Danek: My sophomore year, I didn’t expect to be on varsity at all. I thought I was just going to have another JV season.

Then we got to camp, and I had grown a little bit. The coaches moved me up to varsity, and at first, I thought it was just temporary, and they needed another scout-team guy or something.

But I started playing pretty well throughout camp, and all of a sudden, I was starting on defense. I remember thinking, ‘All right, I’m going to start on defense this season. That’s great.’

Then they put me on offense, too, and I was like, ‘Whoa, I’m starting both ways.’ It all happened pretty quickly.

Casey Campbell: Once you earned that opportunity, what do you remember about making your first varsity start?

Law Danek: I was so nervous. It was just a crazy feeling. Even though Bath wasn’t the greatest team that year, they were still a varsity team, and the guys were all bigger than me.

I was mainly a defensive guy that year and played corner. My goal going into the game was not to allow any catches, and I did that.

On offense, I didn’t get a target until the fourth quarter. It was on a two-point conversion, and Max Volk threw it to me. I caught it, and that was my only catch of the game.

I was super happy afterward. For my first varsity game, I felt like I played pretty well.

Casey Campbell: As you were adjusting to playing at the varsity level, how did Max Volk help you along the way, and how did that friendship develop?

Law Danek: When I first got pulled up to varsity, I looked at all the top senior guys like they were on a pedestal. I was even kind of scared to talk to them.

But Max was great to me from the beginning. He was always really nice to me, and within a couple of weeks, we started becoming really good friends.

He was also a great mentor. Before my first game, he told me about his first varsity start and told me it wasn’t going to be as bad as I thought. He helped calm me down and told me not to be so nervous.

We became even closer as the year went on. During basketball season, we would go to the gym together after practice, and even after he graduated, we stayed in touch. We still golf together, and if he needs someone to throw to while he’s getting ready for college, I’m there.

He still gives me advice about football, too. He knows a lot about the game, so it’s great to have someone like him as a friend.

Casey Campbell: Your sophomore season also brought some adversity with an injury. What did you learn from going through that?

Law Danek: We were playing New Lothrop in Week 3, and there were about five minutes left in the game. I went in for a tackle and felt something in my shoulder. I knew it hurt pretty bad, but I didn’t realize how serious it was, so I finished the game.

Afterward, my shoulder was really hurting, and I knew something wasn’t right. I ended up going to the hospital and found out I had broken my collarbone.

The hardest part was watching my team play without me. I was still part of the team, but I couldn’t be out there on the field with them. I just wanted to play.

That’s where having someone like Max really helped me. We had already become really close, and he was there for me while I was going through it. It was a tough time, but having his support helped me get through it and taught me how to battle through adversity.

Casey Campbell: You’ve experienced a lot of ups and downs during your time at Chesaning. What has that journey been like for you?

Law Danek: A roller coaster is definitely a great way to describe it. My sophomore year, it felt like we only won. It was so much fun being part of that team and having that success.

Then the next year changed completely. We started losing, and it was really hard to go through after what we had experienced the year before.

But this year, the team's morale has completely changed. It feels different, and I definitely think we’re heading in the right direction as a program.”

Casey Campbell: With the program heading in a different direction this year, what has it meant to have Coach Price back and now leading the team?

Law Danek: I knew him really well before he became our head coach. He was my JV basketball coach my freshman year, and I also knew him as an assistant football coach. He was always one of my favorite coaches.

I was pretty upset when he told me he wasn’t going to be part of the coaching staff anymore, so when I found out he was coming back as the head coach, I was really excited.

He was definitely someone I wanted to see come back. I’ve always liked having him as a coach, and it’s been great having him back with the program.

Casey Campbell: What does it mean to you knowing that younger kids in the community look up to you and that you can have an impact on them?

Law Danek: It means a lot knowing I’m a big part of the community. One of the best parts about it is having a lot of little kids look up to me.

We had our youth night, and a ton of kids were there. I didn’t even know some of them, but they were yelling my name and cheering for me. That was really cool. It’s honestly one of my favorite parts.

You get remembered for playing football, but how you treat the younger kids and the impact you have on them lasts, too. That means a lot to me.

Casey Campbell: Having spent the last few years in the program, what does Chesaning football mean to you and the community?

Law Danek: It’s a big part of the community. Every Friday, it feels like the entire town is at the game.

Chesaning is a small town, but everyone comes together to support the football team. I really like that about Chesaning. It’s always a great atmosphere.

Even when we were losing, a lot of people still showed up to every game. The stands were still full, and people kept coming out to support us.

Casey Campbell: What will you miss most about high school football, and how do you hope to be remembered?

Law Danek: I think one of the things I’ll miss the most is just hanging out with my friends. Football is super fun to play, but being around those guys is a big part of it. I know I’m definitely going to miss that.

I want to be remembered as someone who was helpful and a good leader. Obviously, I want to be remembered as a good football player, too, but that’s not the whole story.

More than anything, I want to be known as someone who helped others and was a good teammate.