Line vet Tiberi shares experiences

HUNTLEY — Red Raiders offensive lineman Vinny Tiberi had an early start on his battles on the line of scrimmage. The senior answered survey questions ahead of Senior Night, Oct. 13 against Dundee-Crown.

Describe the togetherness of the senior class has since reporting freshman year.

Tiberi: “My class has a special bond like no other, due to us being the COVID-19 year. We had a shortened season by two games which made us appreciate football more.”

Describe your youth football days, other sports growing up?

Tiberi: “I started playing youth football in sixth grade. At the time I had been playing baseball since I was 7 and I would do different sports in the off-season. One year I decided to play basketball, I was not very good, but I was very physical so my coach urged me to play football and I have been playing ever since.”

Recent grads who helped influence your work ethic?

Tieberi: “Luke Griskey was a teammate that helped me become the player I am. He taught me to play to my own strengths and use those to my advantage on the field. He also showed me how to be a leader and the impact that it could have on a team.”

Most memorable outstanding game so far?

Tiberi: “My most memorable performance has to be our Week 9 match-up last year against Crystal Lake South (a 37-20 win). Being able to provide 500 total yards and winning the ‘hammer’ as an offensive line unit was the best feeling. This year personally winning the ‘hammer’ against McHenry (a 35-6 win) was another defining moment in my high school career. Being able to lead my guys out onto the field is a feeling like no other.”

What will you miss most about HHS? Goals in college-major?

Tiberi: “My goal is to continue playing football in college. I am also looking to continue my studies in engineering. One thing I will miss about HHS is the camaraderie of my team getting ready on Friday Nights.”

Professional athletes whom you admire?

Tiberi: “A professional athlete I admire is Quentin Nelson (lineman, Indianapolis Colts) due to his work ethic and passion for the game.”

Team goals for remaining games:

Tiberi: “I know as a team our goal is to win our conference and be able to make it to a state title.”