If you thought you missed a few Cougar football games the last couple of weeks, don’t worry. The Cougars had a BYE week the homecoming victory against the Taylor University Trojans. The Cougar Football season is just beginning. This is where conference games come into play. Now with the weather finally cooling off, it is really starting to feel like football season.
Last weekend, the Cougars took on Trinity International University at home. Cougar Nation was out supporting their team onto victory. Before this conference game got underway, the team was working hard.
The team was ready to be home. But before the Cougars went back to work, I had the opportunity to talk with one of the biggest names of the 2017 Cougar Football team: Justin Hunniford. Hunniford is one of the two quarterbacks at SXU. He is a junior from Frankfort, Illinois double majoring in Mathematics and Secondary Education.
He transfered from Division III North Central College in Illinois where he played quarterback as well. We talked about why he came to Saint Xavier, how he started to play football, and any other sports he has competed in. Let’s see what one of the most talked about Cougars has to say!
When did you start playing football and why?
Justin: I started playing football when I was 6 years old. I have always been fascinated with the game and wanted to play as soon as possible. As a toddler, I always had to play with some sort of ball (baseball, football, basketball, etc.) so playing football in the fall was the thing to do.
Growing up, who was your role model?
Justin: When I was in junior high, I looked up to Tim Tebow and how he played. He was a very talented player at Florida but what I liked most about him was his energy and leadership. Currently, I look up to Tom Brady (one of the reasons I wear number 12). He is a true professional in everything he does and the way he takes care of himself off the field is something worth mimicking.
Did you always know you wanted to be a football player?
Justin: Not right away, I played 4 sports through junior high and played baseball and football in high school. I decided I wanted to continue my football career in college but the opportunity to play baseball was there as well.
Why did you come to SXU?
Justin: I transferred to Saint Xavier in January of this year. I was looking for a place that felt more home-like while having the opportunity to play football at the same time. I have some high school teammates currently here so they helped make the transition easier.
What are the top 5 songs you listen to before a game or before you work-out?
Justin: Before games, my top song right now is probably “Walk On Water” by Thirty Seconds to Mars. I also like to listen to Eminem’s “Lose Yourself” Fall Out Boys “Centuries” and “Congratulations” by Post Malone
Do you have any superstitions?
Justin: I eat a #12 Jimmy John’s sandwich for either dinner the night before every day game or for lunch that day if it is a night game.
What is something on your bucket list?
Justin: Working to cross off “National Champion” off my bucket list. I 100% feel this team has the capability of doing so.
Where do you see yourself in seven years?
Justin: In 7 years, I see myself coaching somewhere full-time on a college staff. Being a college football coach is my dream job.
Do you have any hobbies?
Justin: In the summer, I am really into golfing with my brother. We probably play 2-3 times a week. He is currently a freshman here at SXU and is a part of the baseball team.
Thanks for the awesome interview Justin! Good luck to you as conferences games come upon you. Tune in next edition when I sat down with another high profile Cougar. Think you can guess who this could be?
Christine Manika
Sports Columnist