For Easton and Kye Schroeder, football is more than just a game. It is an opportunity to compete alongside teammates, build relationships and represent Norwich on Friday nights.
The brothers enter the season focused on helping the Eagles take another step forward, bringing with them a strong work ethic developed throughout the offseason and a commitment to leading those around them.
“I’m most excited about the chance to get back on the field to play football this fall,” Easton said. “It means a lot to be a part of a team and experience everything that comes with playing together.”
Easton, an upperclassman looking to make an impact on both sides of the ball, spent the offseason preparing with his teammates through workouts, conditioning and football skill development. The summer also included rehabilitation as he continued to strengthen his knee after suffering an injury during last season’s playoffs.
“We have been working out together all summer: weights, conditioning, and football skills,” Easton said. “This has helped us create stronger bonds and grow closer as a family. I’ve been doing physical therapy to strengthen my knee that I injured at the end of the season in the playoffs.”
Despite the setback, the injury has provided extra motivation heading into the new season. In eight games last year, Easton carried the ball 100 times for 771 yards and seven touchdowns. He also contributed in the passing game, recording 15 receptions for 280 yards and four touchdowns.
Easton suffered the knee injury on the third play of Norwich’s eighth game against Victoria and was unable to return, but he has used the experience to fuel his preparation.
“This has definitely motivated me to work even harder for this season,” Easton said.
As he enters another season with the Eagles, Easton is focused on becoming a stronger leader. He has emphasized communication, encouragement and setting an example for younger teammates.
“As an upperclassman, I want to be a better leader and a teammate,” Easton said. “I have really tried to lead by example and help create a positive environment where everyone feels important, works hard and improves together.”
Kye has taken a similar approach during the offseason, focusing on improving his strength, speed and football skills. He has spent time in the weight room, worked through position-specific drills and dedicated extra time to improving his technique.
“During the offseason, I’ve been in the weight room consistently, working on getting stronger and faster,” Kye said. “I’ve also been doing position-specific drills, conditioning, and spending extra time working on my technique.”
For Kye, the biggest area of focus has been consistency. Through repetition, additional drills and studying the game, he hopes to put himself in position to perform at a high level each week.
“One area I want to improve is my overall consistency,” Kye said. “During the offseason, I focused on repetition, extra drills, and studying the game so I can make better decisions and play at a high level every game.”
Both Schroeder brothers share similar goals heading into the season. Easton wants to become more efficient as a runner, reduce mental mistakes and help Norwich compete for a district title and a deep playoff run. Kye hopes to make an impact every week while continuing to develop as a player.
“My individual goal is to be the best player I can be, make a big impact every game, and continue improving throughout the season,” Kye said. “As a team, our goal is to compete for a championship, play together, and make a deep playoff run.”
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