3 P.M.: Rocket football a ‘hit’ among eighth-graders

While thousands packed Kelly/Shorts Stadium to watch Central Michigan University football, hundreds of others came to Mount Pleasant High School to watch football of another sort.

Eighth-grader James Hunter plays rocket football for the Mount Pleasant Rockets and, along with many other students, said it is something he looks forward to.

Hunter, who plays offensive guard and defensive tackle for the team, said although he plays several positions, he enjoys playing defense the most.

“(On defense), you get more tackles and … (on offense), all you have to do is block,” he said.

Hunter’s teammate and fellow eighth-grader Matt Blackburn, who plays offensive tackle and defensive end, said he loves the experience he gets on the field.

“It’s pretty fun because, today, I got to play the whole game, except for one play right at the end,” Blackburn said.

Blackburn said playing has given him many memories he will not forget.

“Last year, I think there were like 20 seconds left in the game, and fourth down, they are going for it,” Blackburn said. “We tipped the ball and the ball is like five yards away, so I take one step and dive for it and I catch it … I’m pretty sure we go down and went for a touchdown to win the game.”

Blackburn’s father, Dave, an assistant coach for the eighth-grade team, said making sure the kids enjoy themselves is one of the biggest priorities.

“Hopefully, they have a lot of fun­—thats the number one thing—and that they learn a few things, they learn about discipline and hard work, even if it doesn’t pay off, it’s real important to keep going at it,” he said.

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