Name: Evan Steimle
School: Erie-Prophetstown
Sport: Football
Year: Senior
Why he was selected: He threw two touchdown passes, including an 81-yard strike to Lane Decker on third down with 70 seconds left to tie the game against Newman. He also kicked the go-ahead extra point and had the game-sealing interception in a 14-13 win over the Comets.
It was the first time E-P beat Newman since 2003. The Panthers are 5-0 for the first time in program history as a co-op.
Steimle is the Sauk Valley Athlete of the Week, presented by Loescher Heating and Air Conditioning. Here is a Q&A with him.
How did you first get into football? What has helped keep you in it?
Steimle: My dad got me into football at a young age. I just remember playing catch in the driveway after supper until dark. Then on Friday nights, sitting behind the end zone with my friends and family.
What kinds of things have you learned from football?
Steimle: The biggest thing I think about is, at the end of the day, I get to do what I love with my friends, and I only get to be in high school once.
Was there anything you worked on coming into the season or feel you have improved on?
Steimle: This summer, I would say just getting consistent work in and keeping a football in my hands year-round as much as possible and just continuing to get in the weight room.
What stands out about this year’s team?
Steimle: How connected we are, how everyone trusts each other, and how we just flow as a team.
You guys are 5-0 for the first time as a program. What have been the biggest keys to that great start?
Steimle: It feels great, and playing together as a team.
Any goals for you individually? What about as a team?
Steimle: Individually ties in with my team goal, and I just want to be the best leader I can be for the rest of the team, especially the younger guys. And making it past the first round of playoffs is our team goal.
Favorite football memory?
Steimle: My junior year, I was a receiver, and my best friend Gaven Adams was also a receiver, and we got to run a double pass, and we completed it, and it was just a great moment.
Any fun facts or unique stories about yourself?
Steimle: I like fishing and hunting a lot.
Do you have a favorite athlete, sports team or anyone else that inspires you?
Steimle: My favorite athlete is Marcel Reed; he is the quarterback at Texas A&M.
Any other sports, hobbies or activities you are involved in?
Steimle: I play baseball and basketball too, but football is my favorite sport.
Do you have a favorite book or quote?
Steimle: My favorite book is “The Great Gatsby,” and not really a quote, but everyone is human we are meant to make mistakes.
Favorite restaurant or meal?
Steimle: My favorite restaurant is Chick-fil-A
Favorite place you have visited?
Steimle: Kauai, Hawaii
Favorite TV Show or movie?
Steimle: Favorite TV show is “How I Met Your Mother”
Favorite music artist or genre?
Steimle: Keith Whitley
Any favorite school subjects or teachers?
Steimle: Colin Mix or Cassidy Melton
Do you have plans yet for after high school?
Steimle: I’m still open to college at this point, but my dad also owns a company that I look forward to helping out with.
