Now that the football season has ended, freshman Ian Herrera has stood out throughout the year. Not only is he a great student, but he is also a star on the field. Herrera is a receiver and safety who has been playing football for McDaniel since the sixth grade. He played for the youth team throughout middle school and is now a varsity freshman.

Football is known to be an intense sport. As Herrera is only 14, he is playing against 17- and 18-year-olds. 

“I was nervous to be playing against grown men, but towards the end, I was able to get used to it. It helped that the team treated me like their own,” Herrera stated.

Throughout the season, he received more opportunities on the field, which helped him become more comfortable and confident. 

Sophomore captain Toka’one Fakapulia was quick to point out Herrera’s transformation. 

“At the start of the season, his confidence was low, but he was always grateful to be on the field and quickly gained his confidence,” Fakapulia commented.

Fakapulia expressed his close bond with Herrera, saying he was like “a little brother on the team.” 

“Tre was a good role model and mentor, he really motivated the team,” Herrera stated

He felt like playing against older people helped make him more disciplined on and off the field. Herrera added that senior captain Tre’Marion Crawford would give locker speeches before games to help get the team ready to play. 

Crawford and Herrera both play wide receiver, meaning the two spend a lot of time together during practice. Crawford helps him out like a coach, guiding him when he can. 

“The main thing I told him was not to quit and that in the end it will all be better.” Crawford vocalized.

A favorite moment of Herrera’s season was his first play during the Hillsboro game. He was extremely proud of himself for playing throughout the whole season. 

“He was the most experienced freshman,” Fakapulia stated.

Crawford and Fakapulia both talked very highly of Herrera as a person. 

“He is a great teammate, very coachable, and nice. He is great on the field and in class,” Crawford said.

As Herrera continues to play throughout high school, he is excited for more opportunities and playing time. 

“I’m looking forward to getting better and playing more games,” Herrera stated.

 He has big dreams and is looking forward to making them happen.