Athlete of the Week: Demardre Patterson

Cardinal Mooney High School senior running back Demardre Patterson rushed for 148 yards and four touchdowns to lead the Cougars Oct. 18 to a 62-0 Class 3A-District 6 victory over rival The Out-of-Door Academy.

With the win, Cardinal Mooney clinched a berth in the playoffs for the first time since 2008.

It really means a lot to be able to help out a program in every aspect that I can.

It was crazy when we clinched our playoff berth — not just the reaction from the team but from coach (Josh) Smithers, as well. It means a lot to everyone to get to the playoffs. It’s been awhile.

The best part about being a running back is being able to run kids over and scoring touchdowns. I like being able to use my speed and agility. It really pays off having put in so much time over the summer during workouts and training.

I try to model myself after De’Anthony Thomas at the University of Oregon. He’s so fast — just the way he moves and his ability to break tackles and outrun you. It’s nice.

I’m obviously close to some of the (players) at ODA, especially former quarterback Evan Wilson, having played there. But, I knew going into it that I was going to do whatever I had to do to clinch us a playoff spot.

It would mean a lot to win a district championship my senior year. To be able to go 2-0 in the district is just crazy. For us to be district champions would make this a good year.

I definitely want to play football next year. Right now, I’m looking at Ohio University and Florida International University. I’m (planning) on going to play running back, but as soon as I start playing I’m OK.

Football has taught me how to be a man and own up to responsibility. Football is a really important part of my life, and it shows you a lot about how to be responsible. It’s a man’s sport.

Contact Jen Blanco at [email protected]