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Hard work pays off for Steinke |
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Wednesday, 28 November 2007 |
By JOSHUA KEERAN
Sports Editor
Like all Ohio high school football teams this time of year, the Wapakoneta Redskins would have loved to be making headlines for reaching the state title game. Unfortunately, that kind of publicity has been reserved for a select few — 12 teams to be exact.
The Redskins, however, did receive excellent news on Tuesday when senior linebacker Brad Steinke learned that he had been named special mention All-Ohio in Division II.
Wapakoneta varsity football coach Doug Zimmer said word spread around the school Tuesday morning Steinke had been awarded this prestigious honor, and when Steinke heard the news, his reaction was sort of expected.
“Brad was so excited, and he deserves it,” Zimmer said. “I was so happy for him. This is quite an accomplishment.”
Although Steinke had a season to remember, Zimmer said that this honor has been a long time coming considering the amount of success Steinke has experienced over the years at Wapakoneta.
“Brad has worked hard for this for years. This accomplishment was not a one season award , but an award from Brad’s dedication the past three years,” Zimmer said. “He worked throughout his career during the off-season and during the season. Add his intense passion for the game and only good things will happen, and they have for Brad. “
The Redskin coach said Steinke wasn’t just blessed with great skills, but his frame of mind and leadership skills on the field was just as valuable to the team.
“Brad loved to play the game and his attitude was contagious. He led by example, he was a coachable player and he would make or find a way to make a play,” Zimmer said. “He had a mindset that he was going to go hard each and every play. He was a positive leader for us in every aspect. You could count on Brad with any situation or issue.”
When Steinke wasn’t on the field excelling at his linebacker position, he was busy focusing on his education and being a great friend to others, Zimmer said.
“Off the field he is a conscious student who works hard and is involved,” Zimmer said.
“He is well respected by his peers, and Brad has aspirations of going to college to pursue agriculture and possibly continue playing football.”
No matter what the future holds for Steinke, Zimmer considers himself fortunate for have had the chance to coach the All-Ohio selection.
“It has been enjoyable seeing him play on the field and being around him off the field,” Zimmer said. “He has a level head with great maturity and he’s a solid young man. He has represented Wapakoneta very well.” |
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Last Updated ( Thursday, 29 November 2007 )
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