Sam Bernhardt

1. What’s your favorite memory from playing your sport in high school?

• • The countless hours I spent sweating and grinding in the weightroom or on the field with my best friends in the dog days of the season and summer. Where we pushed each other past our limits and encouraged one another to be the best versions of ourselves. The feeling of accomplishment when achieving a victory, whether on the field or in the weightroom, was always sweeter when I was able to celebrate it with my teammates.

2. What advice would you give to younger players just starting out?

• • Find joy in the small moments and small victories. Never let yourself fall into a self deprecating mindset, and always remember that the more you put in, the more you get out. While it sounds cliche, the lessons you learn and memories you make during your time as a football player truly will carry with you for the rest of your life.

3. Who has had the biggest influence on you as an athlete?

• • I would have to attribute my biggest influence as an athlete to my dad. Since I started playing football for Parma all the way back in kindergarten, he was there by my side. He was always eager to just play a game of catch or help hone my skills, because he believed in my ability to be great. His encouragement and mentorship helped define my work ethic and I go into every game with the hope that I will make him proud.

4. How has being an athlete made your high school years different?

• • Being a highschool athlete has helped define my work ethic and lifestyle. It has made me significantly more productive and has played a major role in keeping me in good physical and mental shape. It gave me several groups of friends, from a wide range of classes, that led me to experience some of my favorite memories and friendships that I have had throughout high school.

5. Do you have a pregame routine or superstition?

• • The only real pregame ritual I have is taking a few minutes for myself to articulate a prayer. I feel like this prayer not only gives me a sense of security, but also eases my nerves.