Football is more than just a sport. It's about companionship, teamwork, and perseverance. For Benjamin Simmons (12), football is an area where Simmons can demonstrate his determination in trying to help the team push through. Playing a sport teaches you plenty of lessons. For every player, there comes a time where they have to face important challenges. “The biggest lesson football has taught me is that doing hard things makes you better at handling hard things. It seems straightforward but it has taken me a long time to truly learn this. Football presents many difficult challenges that have made me into a better person on and off the field,” Simmons said. That mindset has helped Simmons push through difficult practices, games and weather. Every athlete can relate to having to practice during bad weather. Having bad weather can either force the team to change their schedules or change the time when they have to begin practice. Somehow even when things become difficult, Simmons stays focused and overcomes this obstacle. “The most challenging part of this season has been the unpredictable weather. We’ve seen many thunderstorms, heat waves, and more this season. Often making us change our practice schedule to early in the morning or just practicing in the crazy conditions anyway,” Simmons said. Being unprepared is an athlete's worst nightmare. Most athletes forget to drink a sufficient amount of water and electrolytes which causes them to be more prone to getting injured during the game. However, Simmons takes pre-game preparation very important. “I prepare for a big game by drinking a whole lot of water and electrolytes. I sweat a lot and am very prone to cramping so in order to play my best I drink about a gallon of water and electrolytes before each game,” Simmons said. While physical preparation is important, Simmons has also focused on becoming more confident. Building up confidence can be scary and overwhelming for someone that does not speak out often. “Something I have improved on this season is my confidence. I generally like to take the backseat and let others lead but this year I’ve been working on being a more vocal leader and I’ve definitely improved,” Simmons said. Having a great connection with your teammates makes the team in general have a better bond. Likewise, the coach’s attitude towards the players can either create a welcoming atmosphere or an unwelcoming experience. Although Simmons has only played for two seasons, he says his bond with his teammates and coach has made his football experience worth it. “The bond between me and my teammates is pretty strong. I’ve only been here two seasons but I’ve come to love my teammates and coaches. My coach has influenced me as a player by realizing football and life is meant to be fun. I’ve had a lot of super strict coaches that take everything incredibly seriously. Coach Bradley has made me realize that there are times to lay back and joke around but when it’s time to work it’s time to be serious,” Simmons said. Furthermore, people have goals they would like to accomplish throughout their life or career. As new players, experiencing their first season, Simmons encourages them to not back down in difficult times. “One goal I have for myself for the rest of the season is to stay healthy. I want to have the best senior season which starts with me taking care of myself. I would also tell my teammates to embrace the hard things and learn to love working hard. There will be days where they feel exhausted and want to quit but if they stick it out it will be so worth it,” Simmons said. By: Jessica Magana