Athlete of the Week: Chad Rex

Lakewood Ranch High sophomore quarterback Chad Rex threw a 50-yard touchdown pass and rushed for a pair of 2-yard touchdowns and a quarterback sneak to lead the Mustangs to a 22-21 victory over Gulfport Boca Ciega in their district-opener Sept. 21.

How important was it for you to win your first district game?
It was very important. It makes us have rhythm the more games we win, and it motivates us to make the playoffs.

What’s the biggest thing you’ve learned in your first four varsity starts?
When you make mistakes you just have to keep cool, because you’ll always have another chance.

If you weren’t playing quarterback, what position would you want to play?
Wide receiver. I played wide receiver in the past in Pop Warner.

What is the toughest part of your position?
Going to get the play from the sidelines and having to bring it back.

What do you enjoy the most about being a quarterback?
I like being a leader — motivating the team and everything. I’m not in it for the attention. I’m just about doing what’s best for the team.

Do you know what you want to be when you grow up?
A physical therapist. I’ve grown up around football, and my family is in the medical field. My mom is a nurse.

Who is your biggest role model?
My dad. Even the games we’ve lost in overtime, he always tries to cheer me up afterward. He’s always been there for me and keeps me confident.

Do you have any siblings?
I have two brothers, Aaron and Keith, and two sisters, Amy and Kelly.

Do you have a favorite movie?
“Get Smart.” It’s one of those movies that I can keep watching; it never gets old.

If you could go anywhere on vacation, where would it be?
The beaches of Puerto Rico. The climate there is like 72 degrees the whole year. It’s perfect weather.