Ethan McMurray

Ethan McMurray is a freshman, but plays football like an upperclassman.

“Ethan puts in hard work on the field and weight room all summer, which is translating nicely to the regular season. He has taken on multiple positions on both offense and defense and excels at each one, becoming a two-way starter and standout on special teams,” Lake Region varsity football Coach Brian Jahna said. “His attitude is always positive, he is strongly-focused on learning, and he is able to accept critical feedback.”

Making the jump from middle school to varsity football can be monumental.

“Ethan has been able to respond to the speed and physicality of varsity football in an extraordinary way, which speaks to his mental toughness, strong character and willingness to prepare,” Coach Jahna said. “Despite his high level of play and position on the team, he remains quiet and humble, builds up his teammates and does all the small ancillary duties required of a high school athlete.”

In recognition of his strong work ethic, determination, commitment and good sportsmanship, Ethan is this week’s Boosters and Hancock Lumber “Player of the Week.”

Each week, a Lake Region athlete is recognized for his/her dedication (does more than what is asked), work ethic, coachability and academic good standing. Recipients receive a specially-designed t-shirt, sponsored by Hancock Lumber.

The McMurray File

Athlete: Ethan McMurray

Year in School: Freshman

Hometown: Gray

Parents: Johanna Burke, Rob Fogg

Sports you play: Football, basketball, lacrosse

School organizations: Varsity Club

Why did you choose to play football? I decided to play football in the fifth grade because I always loved watching it so I wanted to see if I could take that passion with me on the field.

What is the most difficult part of the game? To me, the hardest part of the game is staying in your head and being positive. When a team is beating you, that’s when real character is revealed.

What do you enjoy the most about the sport? Football has been my whole world from the first time I put that helmet on. I love the game for the work ethic and life skills it’s taught me.

What do you feel you need to work on and why? I feel I need to work on bringing the team up in a positive way. When they get down on themselves, I should, as their teammate, be there for them.

Why is teamwork important? Teamwork is one of the most important things in football. You are not just a team, you’re a family, so everyone has to be with each other through it all to be great.

What is the biggest impact your coach(es) have had on you? I wouldn’t be half the person I am today without my coaches. With moving around a lot, different coaches was nothing new. Coaches teach you things the game can’t.

How do you want people to view you as an athlete? I want people to view me as a young kid just trying to work hard and be the best I can for myself and the team.

Ten years from now, when you look back on your high school sports career, what do you think you will remember most? Ten years from now I’d like to look back and remember how much football taught me and how the family I was a part of never let me down.