A central piece of the Humboldt football team’s success in reaching the quarterfinal sectional playoff round this Friday has been star quarterback Trey Sommer.
Sommer was named October’s Athlete of the Month. Sommer began the season at running back when he was tapped to fill in at quarterback for an injured Blake Ellis against Osage City on Oct. 7.
Sommer leads the Cubs in rushing, averaging 176.2 rushing yards per game for a monstrous total of 1,762 yards and 29 touchdowns through 10 games. Sommer has also passed for six touchdowns for 393 yards through the air.
The senior enjoys having a leadership role on Humboldt’s offense and setting an example for the younger players.
“As a senior, the underclassmen look up to you,” he said. “I think it helps because they trust you and will want to play with you if you are that person.”
Sommer’s team-first mentality is what builds trust among the team.
“It’s nice playing with 10 other kids that want to win just as much as you,” Sommer said. “It shows that we are all on the same page and we’re all united as one. We can accomplish a lot more that way. I’ve really learned to play as a family.”
The Cubs won their first two playoff games in a blowout over Cherryvale and what looked to be an easy win against Osage City until they staged an impressive comeback attempt on Friday.
Sommer credits his teammates for their blocking skills in easing the pressure on the demands on the quarterback.
“With everything being a full team effort it makes things come a lot more natural and easier,” said Sommer. “Everyone working together contributes to my success. If we keep a strong mentality and tell each other we’ve got it, we’re always fine.”
Sommer’s physicality also comes into play by being able to roll over defenders and land into the endzone. He also tries not to force big plays which could lead to worse things happening like turnovers.
Sommer credits his aggressive mindset as a large part of his success.
“I want to be aggressive but at the same time I can’t try to do too much because that could lead to bad things happening. I try to play aggressively and be passive at the same time. Being aware that everything goes through me is a lot easier knowing I can trust my teammates,” he said.
Sommer said he has enjoyed every second of being a part of the team during his high school career. A highlight was when the Cubs earned their first-ever win over Pittsburg Colgan last year.
“Then early this season we beat Caney Valley, which was another big feat,” said Sommer. “Becoming regional champs and hosting the next playoff game for the first time in school history and being a part of a winning culture is the best.”
Humboldt hosts Nehama Central in the sectional quarterfinal playoffs on Friday at 7 p.m.
