Hodge Sees Promising Future

in Weekly Profile

          To many spectators, Drew Hodge has been the player who has done his job on both sides of the ball. No one can say that he has been shrugging off his duties on the field this year. But, save his friends and family, not many fans know the young man behind the face mask. I can tell you for certain that he is more than just a long-run and solid tackles.

AT: First of all, how long have you been playing football?

Drew: “I’ve been playing since sixth grade, so seven years this season.”

AT: What is it about football that makes it your favorite sport?

Drew: “I have to say one of the best parts is being able to hit people. That definitely makes it like no other sport. But I really like how it’s a team sport. It takes 100% effort from everyone out there. All the players have a job to do, and if it’s not done right then the whole team suffers.”

AT: Let’s take you to game night. What’s the best part about that night and about taking part in it?

Drew: All of the fans know who you are because you’re wearing a Tom Bean jersey. Running out on the field, everyone cheering. It gets your adrenaline pumping and just gives you an anxious, exciting feeling about what the night will bring.

AT: All of the great athletes have something they do before a game to keep them calm and to get them ready to play. Do you have something that you do before games to help you focus or relax, like a pre-game ritual?

Drew: Right after school, I have to eat and drink lots of fluids to stay hydrated. Then, I’m always sure to take a nap so I save my energy and sort of get re-charged after a long day at school. When I wake up, I get pumped up and ready for the game. Oh, and I have to eat an orange. That’s, like, my pre-game snack.

AT: We’ve seen you do some pretty amazing things on both sides of the ball this year. Which do you like better: defense or offense?

Drew: Definitely defense. It really pumps me up when we stop someone from scoring or put in a hard tackle. This year, I’m starting to like offense a little more because I’m more involved in it, but defense is still my favorite.

AT: What’s the most difficult part about playing football for your school?

Drew: There’s a lot of pressure because everyone looks up to you. Whether it is younger players or other students; everyone looks to you for guidance or inspiration. Plus, you’re expected to keep a good grade average in order to play. We have to show respect both on the field and in the classroom.

AT: Speaking of young players, what advice would you give to middle school or even per-wee players that are looking to play on the Varsity level in the future?

Drew: Give everything you’ve got. Work hard, even in the off-season, to train your body and stay fit for the next season, and once the season comes just have fun and play the sport you love.

AT: What do you think is the biggest change that the new coaches have brought this year?

Drew: It’s definitely a friendlier atmosphere. We can now be more relaxed which helps us to concentrate when its game time. It’s nice. I like it.

AT: Last question: do you see a strong future for Tom Bean football as a whole now that we have a solid coaching staff and program?

Drew: The future does look promising. We’ve already got the pee-wee teams playing the same offense and defense that the Varsity’s running. So, as they come up grade-by-grade they’ll already be used to the system and routine. It should be good.

            He’s a young man of few words, but Drew Hodge certainly speaks proudly about his belief in his coaches, his ability as a player, and the future being mapped out for his school. Thanks Drew, and good luck on the field and in the classroom.