This month, two underclassmen have stepped into the spotlight for our varsity football team.
Sophomore Kenneth Doss (#1),originally a running back,has switched over to being a quarterback and quickly was noticed. Freshman Gabe Kennett (#13) is one of the youngest players on varsity.They’re not waiting for “their turn” – they’re taking it now.
When asked about his experiences so far, Doss admitted that the biggest challenge has been “not beating himself up when I make mistakes, and instead staying focused on moving forward and improving.”
Despite the fact he is facing older opponents, his confidence comes from trusting the hard work he’s put in.
“I stay confident by trusting my abilities, believing in the work I put in, and focusing on understanding and doing my job on the field,” Doss said.
For Doss, best part of playing varsity isn’t just a Friday night lights, but the growth that comes with it.
“My favorite part is getting better every day and learning from my teammates because they push me to grow and make the experience fun,” Doss said.
As for freshman quarterback Kennett, his first season of varsity has been just as eye opening.
“Being a freshman on varsity is great. I feel like I’ve grown, not only on the field but in my talents.” Kenneth said. “There’s a lot of people on the team that I look up to as like the older brother I never had.”
The adjustment for him hasn’t been easy, though. Kennett said the toughest part has been ”either keeping up with all the upperclassmen or not having the mindset to feel sorry for myself because I’m a freshman.”
But just like Doss, confidence is key.
”I stay confident by really just believing in my own ability to know the game and play the game. I love,” he said.” I know my abilities and what I’m able to do on the field and I feel like I just put a lot of trust into that.”
For Kennett the best part of being on the team has been the brotherhood that football creates.
“My favorite part about being on the team is probably all the people I have met and connections I’ve made with players I never would’ve talked to if it wasn’t for football,” Kenneth said. “I also love how everyone is there for each other and not arguing and putting each other down.”
Doss and Kennett, their story is a reminder that leadership and hard work can take you wherever you want to go. Whether on the field, in the classroom or anywhere life takes you.
Do not let age restrict you on what you think you can and cannot do.
