Sarasota Athlete of the Week: Chris McCorkle

Chris McCorkle is a rising junior defensive back at Cardinal Mooney High. McCorkle, who is 6-foot-2, has received 11 NCAA Division I offers, including offers from the University of Florida, West Virginia University and Michigan State University. 

When did you start playing football?

I started when I was 5. I just grew into the game and came up alongside it. I've been grinding to be the best I can be, and it's paying off. I want to keep it going. 

What is the appeal to you?

Football frees me from a lot of things. It's almost hard to explain, but it brings me peace. 

What is your best skill?

My ball skills are great. I can go high point the ball and I have good hands to bring it in. I can come down with the ball. 

What have you been working to improve?

Mostly it has been my tackling. I feel like that's something I've gotten better at over time. 

What is your favorite memory?

I transferred to Cardinal Mooney last year from South Charleston High in West Virginia. My first game with Mooney I caught three interceptions, but two of them were called back by the refs. It was still fun. That one has stuck with me for a while. It's a core football memory now. 

What has receiving all these offers been like for you?

It's a blessing. It started happening quick, but it has been great. I guess I have to get used to it (the attention from schools). The Florida offer was big. It's an SEC school and it's close to where I live, so that was like a "wow" moment.  

What feedback have the schools given you?

They want to see me get more out of my back pedal, because I can open up too quickly sometimes. But other than that, everything has been great. I'm long, you know? I can do everything, sideline to sideline. 

What is your favorite food?

I like to grub on some cheese pizza and some wings. 

What is your TV show?

I like "Stranger Things" a lot. 

What is your favorite school subject?

I really liked geometry. It just came naturally to me and made sense. 

What are your hobbies?

I like to chill with my family and spend time with them. I like to play some games. Other than that, I'm usually working out. 

What is the best advice you have received?

Keep your head down and push forward. Don't listen to what other people say. You've got to keep going. 

Finish this sentence: "Chris McCorkle is …"

Energetic.