Name: Nick Franko
Year: senior
Hometown: Clarendon Hills
Why do you prefer football to individual sports?
I think it's the camaraderie on the team. With football, you can't win a game without everyone working as a unit.
Are you better at playing offense or defense?
Maybe defense just because I've been playing it longer. This year I started playing both ways.
Do you have a preference?
I really don't. I'll do whatever my coach tells me to do.
Do you have any pre-game rituals or routines?
This year I actually started doing yoga before my games at home. I just feel a little looser. I feel calmer going into the game, so I guess it's helped.
What is your goal for the season?
My goal would be that I left everything out on the field - I don't have any regrets because it's going to be my last season playing high school football. As a team I think it's just we want to win games and see how far we can go with this.
As a co-captain, what do you do to be a leader?
I try to just encourage my teammates when we mess up on a play or forget something. I'm going to get on them, but in a positive manner - 'Let's go, let's get them next time, it's alright, keep working hard.'
What would people be surprised to know about you?
I'm a really good RipStiker (like a skateboard). Not a lot of people know about it, but I'm pretty good at it.
Which NFL team are you rooting for this season?
That would obviously be the Bears. If I had to choose another team, it would probably be the Los Angeles Rams because of Brian Allen.
Do you plan to play in college?
Hopefully if that option is presented to me.
Why does coach Brian Griffin like having Franko on the team?
Nick is the definition of a leader. He not only works incredibly hard to make himself better, but he is also willing to sacrifice for the team. Nick is a young man who has an incredible work ethic and drive that is not typical of someone his age. His character, integrity and grit are foundational to our team.
- profile by Pamela Lannom, photo by Jim Slonoff
- A different Central senior is selected each week by his or her coach to be profiled.
