Sarasota Athlete of the Week: Devin Mignery

Devin Mignery is a rising junior quarterback on the Cardinal Mooney High football team. Mignery threw for 1,303 yards, 12 touchdowns and three interceptions in 2023 while splitting time with current Florida Atlantic University quarterback Michael Valentino. Mignery also ran for 896 yards and 10 touchdowns. 

How did you start playing football?

I was exposed to the game at a young age. Both of my grandfathers played and my dad (Andy Mignery) played for the University of Michigan. I started with flag football and when it was time to play tackle, I loved that, too. 

What is the appeal to you?

The brotherhood of the team. Not just on the field. It is a huge part of my life, all the friends I have made through football. I love all the coaches, too. 

What is your best skill?

Being able to manage the game. At Cardinal Mooney we call it "the 10-yard war." You need to manage the 10-yard war and keep moving the ball and get first downs. Don't make stupid decisions. Get it to the athletes in open space. 

What have you been working to improve?

My speed in short bursts, 10 to 15 yards. In our offense, that burst is the difference between us getting three yards or maybe breaking loose for 15-plus yards. 

Do you prefer running or throwing as a quarterback?

It doesn't matter to me, honestly. I will say that I like running it when I get a good chance because it keeps the defense on their toes and helps my guys get open. 

What is your favorite memory?

It has to be winning the state championship last year. It was the culmination of everything. My freshman year, I was second string on varsity, so I didn't get to play much, maybe some minutes here and there. Last year was the first time in a while I had played real football. We also had a great group of seniors, so to send them off that way was special. 

What are the expectations for this season?

We have set a high standard. I think this year we have the most athletic team we have ever had, just in terms of pure skill. It's up to us to find a way to use everybody in the right way and make it all work. We are looking forward to putting it all out there. 

How fun is playing in this offense for a quarterback?

It's great. We have a bunch of guys coming in and we have a fantastic core group of guys who are already here, both at the skill positions and on the offensive line. I've been given a gift (as a quarterback). We know all of those guys are going to make plays. 

What is your favorite food?

It has to be Jersey Girl Bagels on University Parkway. I get a breakfast sandwich almost every day. Cheddar cheese, egg and bacon on a plain bagel.

What is your favorite TV show?

"Suits" on Netflix. 

What is your favorite subject?

Math. Ever since I was little, I have been relatively good with numbers. 

What is the best advice you have received?

We have a team motto, "TNT," and the first T stands for teammate. You have to love your brother. You can do anything out on the field because you are not doing it for yourself, you are doing it for the guy next to you. That has always hit home with me and I think it is why we have been successful the last two or three years. We genuinely love each other. 

Finish this sentence: "Devin Mignery is … "

A good teammate.