Name: Ethan Taxis
School: Plano
Sport: Football
Year: Senior
Why he was selected: Taxis, a wide receiver recently converted to running back, ran for a career-high 188 yards and a touchdown in Plano’s 35-20 victory over Marengo on Friday, marking his second-straight 100-yard rushing performance. He now leads the Reapers with 540 rushing yards and four TDs on 64 carries, in addition to being the team’s top receiver with 22 catches for 402 yards and five TDs.
“We know how great of an athlete he is,” Plano coach Kyle Tutt said. “We know he can play anywhere on the field – he’s also one of our leading receivers – so it’s nothing that we didn’t think he could do. We’re excited that he got an opportunity to show what he can do.”
Taxis spearheaded Plano’s dominant night on the ground against the Indians. The Reapers ran for all 418 of their yards and five scores as they finished the regular season at 2-7, allowing them to earn a spot in the newly expanded IHSA playoffs. Plano will visit Dixon for its opening-round matchup Friday night.
Taxis was selected as the Athlete of the Week in an online vote. Other nominees were Newark volleyball’s Taylor Jeffers, Oswego volleyball’s Amelia Mosley and Sandwich soccer’s Julian Burciaga.
Here is Taxis’ Q&A with sports reporter Skyler Kisellus.
With Friday’s win, you’re now playoff-bound. What does that mean to you and the program?
Taxis: It’s exciting to have another week to play, especially as that I’m a senior. I enjoy having another week with my boys, a chance to go prove that we’re meant to be there.
How did it feel to ring the victory bell at Reaper Stadium for the last time?
Taxis: It felt amazing. Senior night win – everyone was there. We needed it to make the playoffs. It was a really great senior night to end it on Reaper Field and ring the bell.
You racked up 188 rushing yards against Marengo, while your teammates combined for 230 more. What made the run game so successful?
Taxis: First, it started off with our offensive line. They were making great blocks. I mean, it opened it up amazingly. Coach’s play calls and then us being able to make plays – me, Braylon (Schmidt) and Cooper (Beaty).
Though you’re listed as a wide receiver, you lead Plano with 476 rushing yards. How did that happen?
Taxis: At the start of the season, I started playing receiver. But last few games, I’ve been our running back. Coach just thought it a better fit for our team and where we could move the ball more offensively, and I think it’s working.
What makes you such a strong offensive weapon?
Taxis: My speed, first off, ability to read the gaps and find open field and get yards.
What are the keys to beating a pretty powerful Dixon team on the road this week?
Taxis: Being prepared and everyone executing their job. We’ve watched film on them. Everyone knows what they’re supposed to do. We just have to execute it and play together and control what we can control and hopefully come out with a win.
Is there any particular reason why you wear No. 3 on your jersey?
Taxis: Not really. It started because three points for basketball, like a three-pointer. That’s what I picked it when I was younger, and I just stuck with it.
How do you juggle the responsibilities that come with playing football while preparing for basketball season?
Taxis: It’s a lot to handle, but I think I prepare myself well, take care of my body, eat healthy. I’m excited for basketball season, but I’m excited to see what football has to hold so far now.
Are there any athletes you like to watch or model yourself after?
Taxis: I really do like Cam Skattebo for football, and for basketball, I love watching Steph Curry … I like to run like Cam Skattebo – that’s who I try to model my running game after – and then Steph Curry for his shooting ability.
What songs or artists are on your pregame music playlist?
Taxis: First off is “Woah” by Lil Baby and “Dreams and Nightmares” by Meek Mill.