Nicolet National Bank Senior Spotlight

Parents’ names: Jim and Vicki Cornell
Siblings: Parker and Emmett
Position or events: Middle linebacker
Career Highlight: Making a tackle for loss against Pulaski.

How did you get started playing your sport?

My dad and older bother played and I was interested in the sport so I started playing.

How has the balance between academics and athletics changed for you from freshman to senior year?
Freshman year football is a lot of getting the basics and was more school than football for me. Sophomore year is where people start to get bigger and faster, the balance changes because you start studying other teams’ film and it becomes more football than school. Junior year, the first year of varsity football, is when you realize the skill level change in size difference and film is important, and also getting to know your opponent. This was also the hardest year of school for me. It was more school than football. Senior year, similar to junior year, opponents change and people get bigger and faster. So far for me, I have taken this year as more football than school.

What is your favorite part about this sport? What is the most challenging part about this sport?
My favorite part of this sport is the bonding between the team and the celebration over a win or a big play. The most challenging part of this sport is the offseason. Coaches say the next season starts after this season ends, meaning get in the weight room and do the things other people aren’t doing by getting faster and stronger.

What has been your most memorable experience in high school sports so far?
Starting my first ever varsity game.

Do you have a bucket list goal that pertains to your sport?
Getting First Team All-Conference.

How does it feel as a senior, to look back throughout high school and see your growth (as a person and athlete)?

I don’t think that freshman me would think I would be in the spot I am right now, and how I have developed as a person and as an athlete.

Do you have any pre-game rituals/routines/superstitions?
Just hydrate and watch pregame film.

Do you have a mantra/motivational quote/bible verse that helps you with your sport?
“Do it for the person next to you.”

Favorite food?
Pork chop.

Any hobbies outside of your sport?
Fish and hunt.

Favorite movie/TV show?

Deadliest catch.

Any memorable coaches or teammates you’d like to shout out?
Kevin Peterson and Ben Strickand.

Future Plans? (college, major, career, etc.)
Undecided.