By Derrick Smith

Coaches are an important part of any successful sports team. They teach the ins and outs of the game, but they also teach their athletes to become better people. Zack Hellar has learned a lot from his coaches over the years and he says that their influence has had a big impact on him. 

“My favorite teachers would have to be my football coaches,” he stated. “They have taught me that the game is just like life and there will be times where you’ll continually be beaten down and you will only have two options: give up or dig your cleats in and play until the last second and never give up. My family has also played a big role in my development and has been big role model for me. They have always kept me competitive and are always supportive and have been behind my back in everything I do.”

Hellar is a sophomore at Cherokee High School. He is a dual-sport athlete playing both baseball and football-two sports he has played since he was young. Playing two sports calls for more time and work to be put into progress and get better.

“I have spent a lot of time in the offseason working,” he said, “whether it is working out in the weight room or on the baseball field ironing out all the wrinkles of my game.”

Every athlete looks forward to the time that they are called upon to be in the starting lineup. Hellar says that moment is at the top of his highlights list. 

“One of the biggest moments of my career would have to be when I was able to be a varsity starting pitcher as a freshman.”

Along with playing sports, Zack is also a member of the Future Farmers of America and the Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America programs. He regularly attends his church and is on the Dean’s Honor Roll.

***Photo Courtesy of Karen Eckhardt Photos