Athlete Profile: Owen Huber

Oconto Falls senior a focal point for team’s offense

The Oconto Falls High School football team’s run-oriented offense features a number of skilled players. Senior Owen Huber has been in the spotlight for the Panthers in the first few weeks of the season.

In a season-opening 28-6 loss to Coleman on Sept. 25, Huber recorded Oconto Falls’ lone touchdown, hauling in a 60-yard pass in the third quarter.

Huber had a breakout game in the team’s 40-23 victory over Northland Pines on Oct. 2. Huber rushed 22 times for 250 yards and four touchdowns, scoring on runs of 16, 8, 49 and 4 yards. He also caught two passes for 45 yards, led the defense with 10 total tackles and forced a fumble.

The Panthers suffered a 40-8 loss to ranked Lourdes Academy on Friday, but Huber still put together a solid offensive showing. He rushed for 53 yards and caught three passes for an additional 29 yards.

Q: When did your interest in football begin?

A: I would say in fourth grade when I was put into Pop Warner football. That’s when I realized I loved this sport.

Q: What is your favorite part about the football season?

A: This season is special as a lot of people know we don’t know how many games we have this season, and as a senior I feel I need to give it my all every time football is the topic.

Q: What has the game of football taught you over the years?

A: The game of football has taught me that it’s not only about being big and hitting other guys, it’s learning the game and tactics and how to read their movements.

Q: You scored a 60-yard touchdown in the first week of your senior season. Talk me through the play and how special that moment is for you.

A: That play was a big turning point I feel like for me, to show my speed and ability to find the end zone. It was special for me because that was only the start, and I still have more games to show off what I can do.

Q: You had a monster game to help your team to its first win of the season in week two. Talk me through that performance and what allowed you to be so successful.

A: That game was truly something else; I was pumped for that game. Last season against Lux-Casco, I injured my ankle on the same field we would be playing against Northern Pines on. I wanted to finish what I started before I got hurt last season.

Q: As a senior, how do you balance being a leader for your team and trying to enjoy your final season?

A: I enjoy being a leader for this team; we all love playing the game. To have them look up to me is amazing. It does suck having it be my final year, but I just want to be someone they will remember as a great teacher and player to the team.

Q: Do you have any rituals you go through to get ready for a game?

A: I like to focus on myself and ready myself to be watched by my parents and other coaches. We pray as a team and thank everyone we need to thank. I like to stand before the anthem and take in the feeling of the air and the lights shining on the field.

Q: What’s your favorite memory of competing on the Oconto Falls football team?

A: I would have to say my first game I played on varsity football my sophomore year. I remember being nervous I wouldn’t be good enough. After that first snap, all I remember is enjoyment and love for the game. It all just comes natural ever since I don’t feel nervous.

Q: Favorite TV show, movie and musical artist?

A: TV show — “The Walking Dead.” Movie — “Harry Potter” series. Musical artist — Yung Gravy.

Q: Name one thing about yourself that not many people know.

A: I love collecting movie series — All “Avengers,” “Harry Potter,” “John Wick” 1,2,3.

Q: What’s the greatest piece of advice you have ever been told?

A: To be the person you want to be and not the person everyone else wants you to be.

Q: What are some things you hope to accomplish after graduating high school?

A: To enjoy life, work hard and have a good life for my future family.

AT A GLANCE

Athlete: Owen Huber

Sport: Football

Positions: Running back/wingback, linebacker

School: Oconto Falls High School

Year: Senior