Owen Stamer
Clarendon Hills
When did you first start playing football?
I started playing football as early as you're allowed to play tackle football - probably third of fourth grade - with the Falcons.
What do you love most about the sport?
It's taught me everything. It's taught me a lot about teamwork, leadership, hard work, determination, moral values. You have to put in a lot of hard work to get the results you want. It's taught me so many life lessons beyond it being a really fun game.
Do you prefer playing on the offensive or defensive line?
I've always preferred offensive line. On offense you have more control. It takes more technique. On defense, I don't know where the ball's going. On offense, I do.
How have you improved since your freshman year?
I've gained 100 pounds since I first walked in the door, tons of muscle and technique as well.
What advice you would give to a younger player?
Off-season is everything. People have gone from not even playing to best player on the team. Make sure you're in the weight room, working on technique. Hard work will lead to results.
What is your demeanor before a game?
Most people like to get as much energy as possible. I'm more calm, more relaxed in the locker room, just thinking through what I have to do to be prepared.
What is your goal for the season?
Conference champions.
What else do you enjoy?
I used to play the drums. Any sport of pick-up sport, like basketball or whiffle ball. I like coaching younger teams. I coach the Clarendon Hills Coyotes, which is a travel baseball team. I coach seventh- and eighth-graders.
What are your plans for next year?
I'm hoping to play in college, but I'm not sure on where and if I will play.
Why does coach Brian Griffin like having Stamer on the team?
Owen works incredibly hard to fulfill his role on the team. He is willing to jump in and help wherever needed and sets an example for the younger athletes with his approach to the game. Owen is the type of player that you would love to be able to clone and have 10 of on your team.
- profile by Pamela Lannom, photo by Jim Slonoff
