Jason Mitchell
Football is one of the toughest sports to play, with the physical burden so great that athletes can only play one game a week. It is also a thinking game, requiring athletes to memorize hundreds of plays. Being a linebacker is one of the most physical positions in the game and also requires mounds of game knowledge as well as leadership skills equivalent to those of a quarterback. Senior captain, Eli Axel, has embraced this challenging but pivotal role for the Panthers.
As a committed leader, Axel demonstrates immense knowledge of the game, adding experience and talent to the team. Sophomore safety and wide receiver Ethan Friedman shared, “He is the first guy out onto the field every day and the first one to tell another guy what to do if they don’t get it.”
On both offense and defense, Axel ensures that players know the nuances of the situation and their goals on each play, and he does not hesitate to challenge a coach’s play call if he disagrees with the choice, showing his leadership. Furthermore, Axel exerts himself during every single practice and game, inspiring his teammates to do the same. Overall, Axel is a huge leader on the team, and at certain moments, he even acts as an extension of the coaching staff for the players.
“Eli leads by example. He’s physical, disciplined, and completely team-oriented, the kind of player every coach wants and every teammate respects. He’s one of the toughest players on the roster, but also one of the most supportive and dependable,” said head coach Scott Bello.
Axel understands the importance of his position on the field, and it’s clear he excels in facing adversity with his commanding presence and eagerness. Over 13 games, Axel totaled 17 tackles, including 7 solo stops, averaging 1.3 tackles per game.
They say that with age comes new responsibility, and as a senior captain, Axel stepped into a new role as a mentor, in which he has embraced the responsibilities of this season.
Sophomore running back Clive Chao shared, “He is THE leader of our team. He keeps us in check while still keeping up the team tomfoolery. He is a hard worker and looks to get 1% better every day. He has a true love and passion for the game.”
Axel’s patience and grit in leading the team have been impressive, given they ranked second in the 8-Man Freelance League with an overall regular season record of 3-4.
Despite the team’s limited success in previous seasons, the Panthers’ positive campaign this season has changed the narrative for Poly football, and it’s clear Axel has a huge part to play in that success. Whether it’s on the field or in the training room, Axel gives the team 100% of his effort. Hoping to continue his athletic journey in college, Axel’s positive and experienced presence will be cherished as the Poly football season comes to an end.