East County Athlete of the Week: Heath DeRusso

Heath DeRusso is a junior linebacker on The Out-of-Door Academy football team. DeRusso had six tackles, an interception and a fumble recovery in the Thunder's 28-0 home win over Faith Christian on Aug. 23. It was the team's second-consecutive shutout. 

When did you start playing football?

I started with flag football when I was 4 years old, then moved on to tackle football. My family moved here from northern California before I started high school, and I did not play my freshman year at ODA, but Coach (Rob) Hollway convinced me to play again as a sophomore. 

What is the appeal to you?

I love the aggressiveness, to be honest. I love being able to hit people. I love having fun with my boys. 

What is your best skill?

Reading the offense. I can pretty much tell what play is coming after our coaches walk us through the other team's offense during the week. When it comes to game time, I'm seeking out what they are doing. 

What have you been working to improve?

Being a leader and getting everybody into our workouts. Just making sure we are working as a team. I tell kids who aren't starting that they have to work for it (playing time). Nothing is going to be handed to anybody here. 

What is your favorite memory?

It has to be winning the (Sunshine State Athletic Association Class 4A) championship last year. Everything was on the line. It was the first football championship in school history. It was an amazing feeling, especially winning it for our seniors' last year. 

What has been the key to this season on defense?

We have great chemistry and great game planning by our coaches. They are getting us exactly what we need. I think it is the best defense we have had, and we want to keep the shutout streak going. 

What are your goals this season?

Well, as a defense, we want to keep zero points on the board the entire year. I think we have a shot to do that. Personally, I'd like to break Charlie (Tack's) record for tackles in a season, which is 69. 

What is your favorite food?

I love the chicken from Chick-fil-A. 

What is your favorite class?

I'm taking sports and entertainment management. I get to learn the financial aspects of the sports world, which is cool. 

What is your favorite TV show?

"Suits" is my favorite, for sure. 

What are your hobbies?

Most of my time is spent playing football right now, but I have also played baseball since I was 3 years old. Besides that, I just have fun with my boys. 

What is the best advice you have received?

Coach Hollway, before every game he says, 'Play hard, play smart and have fun.' If you follow those three things, you are going to have a good time and you are going to be successful. 

Finish this sentence: "Heath DeRusso is …"

Funny.