When scouting University High’s football team, the first names mentioned are seniors Logan Holgorsen, Amir Richardson and Evan Parow — a dynamic trio that has put up a fast majority of the offensive production this season.
But fellow senior Derek Richardson has been one of the unsung heroes for the Hawks.
Richardson plays both tight end and defensive end for UHS and has put together a solid year. He’s managed to make an impact in the passing game, with one receiving touchdown and 100 yards so far, and helps absorb blocks so the linebackers can make plays defensively in University’s 3-3 stack scheme.
He has 26 tackles — three for loss — and one sack through nine games.
“I just do my role,” Richardson said.
One of the main reasons why Richardson has been productive is his offseason preparation.
“Me and the other guys, like Logan, Amir and Parow have been putting in a lot of work at the facilities when we can get in in the winter time,” Richardson said. “We ran a lot of routes over the winter and we’ve just been working hard in the weight room. On and off the field, we’re just trying to get better.”
Fellow teammate Amir Richardson has taken notice of that leadership.
“He’s definitely brought a lot of energy to this team — in the weight room, routes in the offseason, on the field,” Amir said. “He’s a real fun guy. Everyone likes him. He’s really liked on this team. We all know what he brings to the table.”
Amir went on to say that Derek is also a guy that’s always there when you need someone to talk to and is one of the seniors that’s always leading by example.
Being a senior, Derek hopes to keep his final season at University alive with a win over Morgantown in the Mohawk Bowl. He said this game means “everything” to him.
“I’ve done my time on JV. I’ve worked hard. I’ve played this whole year looking for my chance during this game,” he said. “I’ve been waiting for this one.
“I’m friends with all of those guys across town. I love them, but when it’s time to play the Mohawk Bowl, there’s no friends.”
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