Carter Contreras
Hinsdale
What are you feeling as the football season begins?
Obviously I'm super excited. The most important thing for me as a senior and team captain is leading my team.
How do you try and lead as captain?
I think it's important to teach the younger guys and the guys who haven't played in big games how to keep yourself calm and controlled in tense situations. I looked up to my team captains, and they definitely helped me push through the challenges and that was so helpful when I joined varsity as a sophomore.
How have you evolved as a player since freshman year?
Over the offseason I've worked on everything. I've really improved my route running and my hands, and I've definitely put on weight and improved my speed.
How would your teammates describe you?
As someone who loves to play and always keeping my energy high - just being a leader and the captain they voted for.
What do they call you?
C-Con.
Do you have any pre-game routines?
I like listen to music by Lil Baby, Nardo Wick and 21 Savage to pump me up.
What's your goal for the season?
For me everything is just about winning. I want to do anything I can do to put my team in a situation to win.
Have you been involved in other activities at Central?
I ran track last year.
Any other talents?
I can solve Rubik's Cube.
What shows are you watching?
Right now I'm binge wathcing "Ozark" and "The Sopranos."
What was the highlight of your summer?
I went to Country Thunder and listened to some great music with my friends. And going to friends' lake houses was a great time.
Why does head coach Brian Griffin like having Contreras on the squad?
He's just a great leader and a great team guy. His whole family has been involved with the football program, and they've consistently been kids who care about the team and about making the team better. He does a great job as a leader that way.
- profile by Ken Knutson, photo by Jim Slonoff
