Noah Becker is a fine all-around athlete. The Edmonds-Woodway senior has excelled in two sports — he’s a three-time All-Wesco 3A selection as a football player and received all-conference honorable mention last season as a basketball player.
Becker’s athleticism stands out, of course. But according to Warriors basketball coach Robert Brown, Becker has supplemented his physical gifts with an innate ability to remain calm and collected.
“He’s super mature,” Brown said. “He doesn’t talk a lot, but he provides leadership with the way that he plays and carries himself. It’s like a glow. He’s a great kid to be around. His parents say that he didn’t cry when he was born. He’s just always been like that. He just exudes leadership. It’s nothing that he does, it’s just his presence.”
The Herald recently spoke with Becker about his athletic background and future plans:
What’s your role on the basketball team this season?
Coach Brown wants me to step up and be a captain, take 10 shots per game and be one of the leading scorers, and be a good defensive player, guarding the (opposition’s) better players. I feel comfortable taking shots, but I love playing as a team and getting more people involved.
Did you start playing football and basketball at a young age?
I’ve been playing basketball for as long as I can remember. I probably started in the third grade. Football, same thing. It’s a passion. I just picked up the skills pretty easily, and have been trying to get better each year. It’s hard to say which one I like better — probably whichever one I’m playing at the time. I love both sports.
Who’s been the biggest influence on your athletic career?
My dad, Mike. He’s always pushed me to get better in sports from an early age, and I think it’s paid off. I have to give him credit for that. He’s (helped) me with the mental side. He’ll tell me things to do if I don’t have a good game, give me stuff to work on.
What’s the biggest obstacle you’ve had to overcome?
I damaged my medial collateral ligament during our football game against Snohomish (on Oct. 27). It wasn’t a tear, but (the injury) has affected me a bit athletically. I’m still rehabbing. I was told that it will take four to six weeks of rest (to heal), so I’ve been going light. (I wear) a brace, and take time off when it starts to hurt a bit.
What are your plans after graduation?
I’ve got a couple of schools looking at me to play football. (Playing in college) has always been my goal. I’m still trying to figure things out, but I’m thinking about studying business management.
What’s your favorite class in school right now?
Besides physical education, probably something in science, like biology.
What do you do when you’re not in school or playing sports?
I go to the gym to lift weights and get stronger.
How would you describe your personality?
I’d say I’m friendly most of the time. I like to lead by example, but I can be a vocal leader as well.
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