Football, the most beloved sport of America, is often seen as one of the most physically and mentally challenging sports among them all. Hours and hours of physical training, mental preparation, and learning plays can support that. However, when most people think of the sport, they think of the actual game itself; scores lighting up the scoreboard, different color jerseys lining a stadium, and a brown oval shaped ball being flung through the air. But, the people who think of football as purely a game are the same people who often overlook the players. The people who know that football is a lifestyle, a culture, and an art know that looking at the players can provide some of the best insight to the game of football.
Logan Spear, a senior at Ripon High School, has played football for all four years of his highschool career, however his admiration for football began at a much younger age. “My first year of tackle football was in seventh grade,” says Spear.
However, Spear knew even before then that he was destined for a place in the football world. “I always wanted to play tackle football because it was something my dad did, and it sounded really fun,” he states.
Spear’s high school football career has been one of development and hard work. “I started in freshman year not knowing where I was going to play, and they put me at tight end. Then halfway through sophomore year, they moved me up to Varsity, and I’ve just continued to improve,” he recalls. From new beginnings to finding his place within the team, it’s another great example of how determination pays off.
Upon being asked about advice he’d give to his freshman self, he states, “Just keep being you, keep going.” His reminder to persevere and be true to oneself is a message that certainly translates past the football field.
Football has impacted Spear’s character significantly, too. “Since our football team uses the SWAG (Scholars, Winners, Athletes, Gentlemen) program, football has taught me to treat everyone the way you want to be treated and shaped me into a hardworking person,” he shares. To him, the sport is far more than it seems; it’s about becoming a better person.
Looking forward to graduation and, in Spears’ case, possibly some football after, Spear’s words again point out how large the positive influence can be in the sport beyond athleticism. Football has been a part of his life, helping him grow and learn. The messages and impact from his football career will stay with him long after the final whistle of his senior season blows.
