Teenagers are often accused of thinking they’re invincible, but Brad McPherson does his best to make sure he is. To be a two-way starter in football, which McPherson is, “you’ve got to be really durable,” he said.
The 5-foot-11, 185-pound running back/linebacker has repeatedly shown he can take a hit and keep going. He once endured a blow to the face that later required eight stitches, but he never left the game. Stepping off the field isn’t an option for McPherson. “I’m one of those kids (who doesn’t) get hurt. I’m scared to death if I leave the game I’m going to lose my spot,” he said.
Coach’s corner
Pound for pound, McPherson might be Arlington’s strongest player, Eagles coach Tim Tramp said. The two-year captain “has tremendous leadership skills and enthusiasm. He’s encouraging and emotional, and his teammates feed off of that,” Tramp said.
Double threat
As an outside linebacker and a hybrid running back/receiver, McPherson fills many roles for Arlington. On defense, he stops runs and passes, and on offense he makes lead blocks, catches short throws and occasionally runs the ball. “I hate getting taken off the field,” said McPherson, who plays on most special-teams formations too.
Favorite pro football player
McPherson said he admires humble athletes such as New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady: “In interviews the first thing he does is (compliment) other players.” McPherson said he can’t stand spotlight-craving guys such as Dallas Cowboys receiver Terrell Owens.
On Point
“I’ve always wanted to be in the military. Why not get a good education while I’m at it?” said McPherson, who hopes to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point. West Point applicants must excel in athletics, academics and leadership, McPherson said. He seems to fit the bill. Besides the three-sport athlete’s athletic achievements, he is the top-ranked student in Arlington’s senior class and was junior class president.
Dream jobs
McPherson hopes to pursue a career in the military or in medicine. His current job is installing drywall with his father. The blue-collar work, which McPherson began doing at age 12, “gives you good work ethic. You have to have that work ethic to get things done. It helps you with time management,” he said.
The big screen
The last movie McPherson saw in a theater was “Good Luck Chuck,” starring Dane Cook and Jessica Alba. “I thought it was hilarious,” he said.
Mike Cane, Herald Writer
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