By Matt Browning
Entering his senior season, Newton’s Eli Kirtley wants to set the tone for the future of the football program.
“I’m excited to be a leader and really help put the next generation of Newton Railer football players,” Kirtley said. “I’m also looking to make people around me better by pushing them during practice and keeping them accountable.”
One of the best ways to be a leader, is leading by example. Kirtley’s dedication throughout the offseason certainly exhibited how he wants everyone in the program to prepare.
“During this offseason I have been doing weights through our school and a week-long camp that ended with a scrimmage to get us more ready for padded practices and games,” Kirtley said. “I have also been watching film on teams we play this year to learn their offense and to have an advantage when it comes to game time.”
Kirtley averaged 7.3 tackles per game last season on his way to being chosen as an honorable mention all-league linebacker.
Still though, Kirtley felt like he needed to get better.
“I definitely wanted to improve my pursuit and tackling this year,” Kirtley said. “I have done lifts that would help with speed and explosiveness to better this area. Goals I have this season include being in the top three for tackles, being a good leader, and earning an honorable mention or higher award this year.”
