High school football requires discipline and teamwork. For first-year student-athletes, it is also a journey of personal and physical growth. Students must set clear goals and consistently follow their training and academic study schedule. Ayden Hector was an honor roll student for four years at Eastside Catholic High School in Sammamish, WA, and a highly rated defensive back who earned a walk-on position at Washington State in 2020.
By remaining organized and committed to achieving his goals, Ayden accomplished much during his high school career. He volunteered for many worthwhile organizations, and as an EC Crusader, he was a three-time All-State selection and an Adidas and Polynesian Bowl All-American. Hector realized that his mastery of fundamental techniques in high school and other key factors prepared him for a successful football season, even as a freshman.
5 Tips to Excel in High School Football
Master the fundamentals of the game
To excel as a freshman in high school football, it is critical to perfect the basics. This includes core skills like blocking, tackling, passing, and catching, which will lay a strong foundation for success depending on your assigned position. Ayden believes that footwork is a most important skill that is often overlooked but plays a critical role in maintaining balance and executing plays effectively.
Incorporate plenty of drills into your routine that will improve speed and foot coordination, including shuttle runs, which help develop quick directional changes. The key to mastering the fundamentals is repetition and consistent practice. A football player can improve these movements over time. Especially with feedback from your coach or more experienced players. Staying consistent with these habits ensures long-term success.
As a defensive back, Hector consistently ran drills that focused on footwork, especially since his position included tight coverage to mirror the movements of a wide receiver.
Understanding teamwork and communication
Freshman athletes involved in team sports must be willing to communicate and work as a group at all times. No matter how skilled you are, your high school football career will likely end there if you don’t build a solid relationship with teammates and work well with coaches. Hector suggests engaging in camaraderie, like group workouts or casual hangouts.
Take any opportunity to strengthen the bonds between team members, which will work to foster a sense of unity. A team that communicates well will perform better on the field. Celebrate your teammate’s victories and support each other during challenges. Always work to listen and understand your coach as a critical aspect of teamwork.
Building mental strength and emotional balance
Football is one of the most physical sports, but it is also a mental game. Staying focused under pressure is critical, a skill that separates a good player from a great one. Mental strength and balance are also crucial when facing a formidable opponent or having a bad day at practice. Engage in positive self-talk and lean on your teammates to handle setbacks and pressure.
There are several ways to increase your mental strength and emotional balance. Consider deep breathing exercises and visualization techniques, such as mentally walking through plays before hitting the field. Replace any self-doubt with constructive thoughts to help you stay focused under pressure.
Set reasonable goals to make a positive impact
Even in high school, Ayden Hector wanted to make a positive impact, both on and off the field. He set reasonable goals for his football career, and each time he achieved one, he raised the bar a little higher. This mindset helped him amass 76 total tackles, three interceptions, and two sacks in just two seasons with the Colorado State Rams.
Establishing both short-term and long-term goals gives direction to your football journey. Short-term objectives, like improving your sprint time or mastering a specific drill, keep you focused on immediate progress. At the same time, long-term goals, such as earning a starting position or contributing to a playoff run, motivate you to stay consistent. Tracking your achievements over time boosts confidence and highlights areas that still need attention, helping you maintain a sense of purpose throughout the season.
Avoid the common pitfalls of high school athletics
There are many things that can derail your high school football dreams. An injury on the field or due to overtraining is common. While staying dedicated to working hard is important, don’t neglect good nutrition, sleep, and allowing time to recover after an intense practice or game. Listen to your body to make sure that you’re performing at your best when it matters most. It’s also important to avoid comparing yourself to others.
Football is a team sport, and focusing on individual growth is better than competing with teammates. This fosters a healthier mindset and a more supportive team environment. Staying mindful of these pitfalls will help sustain your progress throughout the season.
