By Murray Gleffe
Correspondent
Name: Josh Blount
School: West De Pere
Parents: Jim and Sarah Blount
Activities: Football, baseball
Twitter: @JoshBlount21
Josh Blount is a senior quarterback on the West De Pere football team.
As a sophomore, he led the Phantoms to the WIAA Division 2 state title game.
Blount is also a baseball commit to Division I Illinois State University.
His hobbies include golfing, boating and spending time outside.
Talk about this season.
“Every team begins the season intending to win the state championship. Two years ago, we got there and brought home a silver ball. Last year, our season ended two games short. Our goal remains the same for this year – go as far as we can and be successful as a team.”
Talk about the new coaching staff.
“Many coaches have been in the program the past couple of years, but their commitment to the athletes and winning remains the same. Head coach Chris Greisen and the new assistant coaches bring unique enthusiasm and philosophy to the program. His extensive experience and knowledge of the game will help the program continue to have a winning tradition.”
What’s your most embarrassing football moment?
“Fumbling the ball my sophomore year in the playoffs against Notre Dame Academy. It was in the open field, and no one forced it out – I just dropped it. Luckily, we went on to win the game. It didn’t go unnoticed, because our coaches ran us through many drills the following week.”
Which do you prefer – playing on grass or turf?
“Turf. Although it’s not as soft to land on, you can almost always be sure of your footing, which makes it easier to cut and break away.”
What’s the hardest part about dealing with a loss?
“Losses are disappointing, but they provide a learning opportunity for yourself and the team. There’s always room for improvement, whether you win or lose, so you have to refocus each week for the next task. The hardest part for many athletes is learning to let it go and move on.”
If you could be somebody for a day, who would it be?
“West De Pere assistant coach Regan Budek. His energy and passion for everything he does are remarkable, and you’ll always see him smiling.”
Has it been hard being a four-year varsity player and the pressure which comes along with being a quarterback?
“My freshman year, it was difficult and somewhat intimidating. Nearly everyone on the field was bigger, stronger and faster. Once you have a team where everyone can trust each other, it takes lots of pressure off. There’s always pressure and personal expectations we have for ourselves, but having a team willing to follow you turns the stress into confidence and allows you to perform better.”
What’s a weekend out of season like for you?
“When I’m not playing sports, I enjoy hunting, fishing and weekends at the lake with friends and family.”
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
“I always wear two socks for practices and games. I put them on in a certain order every time.”
A cruise or flying to a destination?
“I’ve never been on a cruise, but I think it would be fun.”
What four words describe you?
“Determined, persistent, outgoing, dedicated.”
What’s your favorite music genre?
“Country/rock.”
What’s one thing you feel should be changed to keep players safe?
“Continuous improvement with helmets, especially with younger athletes is the most important. Bumps and bruises heal, but brain damage is irreversible.”
Who’s your favorite professional football player?
“Patrick Mahomes from the Kansas City Chiefs. It’s fun to watch him pick apart players and defenses. He’s a good guy and a hard-working athlete.”
What’s your favorite in-season activity with friends?
“Going to Taco Bell after games or laughing at ourselves during film sessions.”
What other sport could you have excelled at?
“Beach volleyball.”
What’s the hardest thing to deal with during the COVID-19 pandemic?
“Not being able to see my family.”
Favorites
Subject: Science
Television show: “Stranger Things”
Restaurant: Cracker Barrel