Our Athlete of the Week is Preston Emken, a junior and inside linebacker for the Wolves

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How long have you been playing football? 

I started playing football when I was around four years old but started pads when I was in 3rd grade.

How does it feel to be the Athlete of the Week? 

I feel honored. You know, I’m only one part of the whole thing, just one part of the team, and it’s really great to win an award.

Have you played any other sports besides football? 

Yeah. When I was younger I played baseball, football, hockey, and some lacrosse.

How long have you been playing football? 

I started playing football when I was around four years old but started pads when I was in 3rd grade.

How did you get ready or prepare for the game against Creek?

So every week we don’t really focus on who the opponent is. We just focus on what we can to make ourselves better, and I feel like that’s what really set us up for success.

Have you set any football goals for yourself that you have accomplished or are working to accomplish?

You know, I always want the best for myself, so each game I try to set myself for at least 10 tackles, but you know just minimizing errors is really what I aim for 

Do you want to play football in college? If so, what college? 

Yeah, that’s my primary goal for football. I don’t really care which college. Whichever suits me best.

How long have you played varsity? 

 I started my sophomore year.

What has been your favorite football memory? 

My favorite football memory is either in the locker room or at practices with my team and just getting to know them and bond with them. 

How does it feel to be one of the younger players/captains on the team? 

It feels like an honor to be one of the captains. You know, I got a bunch of guys that really just work everyday, and for me to represent them is really an honor.

How have the older kids helped you?

The older kids taught me to accept everyone at school and just really teach people to be inclusive and just build a community of trust and love.

How far do you guys think will go in the playoffs? 

You know it. I think we can go. We have the potential to go all the way. We just have to work hard and do our job week by week.

What’s your favorite type of play to make? Like a forced fumble, fumble recovery, pick, sack, or tackle for loss. 

I like the tackles for loss ‘cause its really just like a burst of energy when you make that play.

How do you get into a game mode?

I like to stay calm throughout the day. I don’t like to hype myself. I try not to think about it as much as I have to and, you know, towards game time is when I start ramping it up.

If you weren’t a linebacker what other positions would you want to play?

I am a linebacker at heart, but if I had to choose one, it would have to be running back.