Q-and-A with Connor O’Brien, Lemont football
November 6, 2012 7:10PM
Connor O'Brien, of Lemont. | Brett Roseman~Sun-Times Media
high school
CUBE
Updated: December 8, 2012 6:32AM
It’s not a stretch to say O’Brien, a senior linebacker, is a leader on Lemont’s defense. He had six solo tackles in the Indians’ second-round playoff victory over Richards, giving him a team-high 106 tackles for the season. O’Brien and the Indians will meet Oak Forest on Saturday in a Class 6A quarterfinal.
You’re at the tail end of your prep career. What’s next for you?
My goal is to play football in college. I’m getting looks from the Ivy League, Eastern Illinois, Bucknell and South and North Dakota State.
Do you have a dream school?
Not really, but I’d love to play in the Mid-American Conference. That’s been a goal of mine, too.
If football doesn’t work out in college, then what?
I plan on being just a student. But I also play baseball, too. I’m a first baseman.
Which sport have you played longer?
I think I started both when I was about 6 years old. If I had to pick one, I’d pick football. But I just love sports.
You’re also ranked near the top of your class, right?
Unweighted, I’m No. 1 in my class. I definitely work hard to get good grades and it’s a lot tougher to do that playing football, too. You need to find the right focus.
Career-wise, where do you see yourself in five or 10 years?
I’d like to study something in the health field. My aunt is a dentist, and she’s inspired me.
Lemont has such a strong football tradition. Did you ever think you’d have this kind of an impact on the program?
It’s all been such a blur. My freshman year I never thought I’d play on Friday nights. It’s like a dream.
As told to Tina Akouris
