Sarasota Athlete of the Week: Al Oliver

Al Oliver is a rising senior offensive lineman on the Riverview High football team. As of May 28, the 6-foot-5, 290-pound Oliver has collected five offers from NCAA Division I schools, most recently Bryant University on May 27. 

When did you start playing football?

I started when I was 6 years old. I played basketball when I was younger, but because I was so big, I had to play football. I could go out there and push people around. I started as a defensive linemen and switched to the offensive line when I was 8. 

What is your best skill?

Pulling when I'm run blocking. It's just natural for me. It gives me a chance to drive somebody for 10-15 yards. 

What is your focus for this summer?

I'm going to be in the weight room, just getting stronger. I'm trying to get my bench (press) up to 330 pounds and my squat to 530 pounds. 

What is your favorite memory?

Last year when we played Sarasota High, I got to score on a two-point conversion. We called a play where our quarterback rolls out to the left and our offensive line blocks left, but the right tackle runs a route to the right. So I blocked for two seconds, then turned around and got behind the quarterback. He threw it to me, and I ran to the right and scored. I knew I would make the play. 

What is the mood of the team heading into summer?

We're feeling good right now. We're just waiting for everybody to get healthy so we can continue to be great. 

What is your favorite food?

I have to go with steak, cooked medium well. 

What is your favorite TV show?

I've been watching "BMF," that's my favorite at the moment. 

What is your favorite school subject?

I like art class. I have always liked to draw. 

What are your hobbies?

I like to play video games. I'm pretty good at "Madden" and "Call of Duty."

Which superpower would you pick?

Invisibility. For some reason I have always wanted to be able to turn invisible. 

What is the best advice you have received?

As a sophomore, my coaches told me to be patient because my time would come. As a junior, that ended up being true. It happened. 

Finish this sentence: "Al Oliver is …"

Cool. I'm just vibe-y.