First up is Eagle Defensive End Moi Rocha who had two blocked passes and two big time fumble recoveries in the game against United South last week.
Who do you consider to be your biggest influences?
I would have to say my Dad because he's gone though surgeries, brain tumors, he was also paralyzed on his left side. If it wasn't for him taking me to practice and picking me up, I wouldn't be where I am today. I would have to say JJ Watt because in his high school years he was a quarterback, so he went from being a quarterback to a defensive end and at the top of his game. Hopefully one day I will be as good as or better than him.
What are your goals this season?
To be the best I can and to be the All-District Defensive End.
Who's your favorite NFL team?
The Houston Texans.
College team?
UT.
What's your favorite play and why?
Bama, because I can come back as a linebacker and play as a linebacker and I can blitz, intercept passes and anything a linebacker can do, I have that responsibility.
What are your plans after graduation?
I want to do my basics here or if I get a scholarship I'll play at the next level.
Major?
Mechanical Engineering.
What does it feel like to come out of the tunnel? What do you feel when you hear the fight song?
All the intensity. I feel unstoppable. When I hear the fight song, I feel very proud of myself for being an Eagle.
Finally, give me some advice to a seventh grader playing football for the first time.
Have fun. Don't play with pressure and play for yourself, if not for yourself, for someone you love. Don't let people get into your head telling you that you're no good.You're the best one on that field.
Next up is Maverick Linebacker Patricio Hernandez who had four big tackles on every kickoff for the Mavs on special teams last week against Southside.
Who do you consider to be your biggest influences?
My parents Rosa Maria Lopez and Jorge Hernandez because they influence me. They tell me to work hard at everything I do. They tell me that nothing is easy, you have to work hard for everything you want in life. Tom Brady of the New England Patriots because of all the hardships he went through to become the great player that he is.
What are your goals this season?
My goals are to reach the playoffs, be helpful for my team and learn more about the game.
Who's your favorite NFL team?
The Carolina Panthers.
College team?
Texas A&M Aggies.
What's your favorite play and why? (Give me a good long one)
Frog Bash. This is the formation and play I prefer because I blitz and try to get the quarterback.
What are your plans after graduation?
Go to college.
Major?
Architecture.
What does it feel like to come out of the tunnel? What do you feel when you hear the fight song?
It's exciting to go out and play football every Friday night and see your fans in the stands. It's very inspirational to hear our fight song.
Finally, give me some advice to a seventh grader playing football for the first time.
To work hard, never give up and trust the process.