Football fans in Lansing, MI should be proud of their Tri-County Crusaders. Led by Coach Wallace and Coach Mack, the semi-pro squad achieved an undefeated record of 7 – 0. Their perfect season will be put to the ultimate test when they play for the Greater Midwest Football Conference Championship on August 22nd. A representative of the Crusaders sat down with THISENT.com for THIS INTERVIEW ahead of the big game.
How exciting, and motivating, is it to see fans enjoying live football right now?
Very exciting! Especially in these unprecedented and scary times. It’s great to see smiles. Seeing people happy is a sign of hope that, while things may never be the same again, times will get better. It motivates us to want to play harder. We may very well be the only live football experience they will get this year, so we want to give them our best!
Speaking of your best, congratulations on the undefeated season! What has surprised you most about your team’s success?
To say “surprised” would be a disservice to this team. We worked hard and that hard work showed on the field this year. Thank you for the congratulations, by the way!
What was the biggest challenge in route to an unblemished regular season?
The competition was stiff. Any great athlete will say they want to play the best. We had the opportunity to play each team in our division multiple times and each time it seemed like they brought more intensity and they were more driven than the time before. We can respect that and need that in order for our team to grow and be better.
What NFL team would you all compare yourselves to?
This is a controversial question but I’m going to say the 2017 New England Patriots.
I’m not saying it’s our favorite team. Much like the Patriots we’re able to go out with confidence and when our backs are against the wall we don’t fold under pressure. Instead, we make the necessary adjustments and drive towards victory.
The co-owner loves the Green Bay Packers so of course we play with heart like Aaron Rodgers.
Tell us how the offense and defense motivate one another.
There’s definitely a friendly competition between both sides of the ball. The offense and defense are hard on each other in practice. Then will give each other feedback and pointers on where we need to tighten up.
That’s clearly helped. When did you all start to discuss that an undefeated season was a real possibility?
It was never really brought up. We have always taken things one game at a time and never looked past our next opponents.
Sports personalities and analysts like Colin Cowherd say the quarterback is the most important player on a football team. Is that true with Tri-County Crusaders?
The quarterback is one of the leaders if not the leader of any football team. It couldn’t be any more true in this case. #4 Malik Mack is a smart player who has the ability to make timely decisions and manage the game clock. When he needs to run, there’s no fear in this kid. He gets the ball where it needs to go.
What precautions have been taken with Covid-19 for players and fans?
Pre-screen checks before each practice and if you’re sick then you’re asked to stay home and not participate.
As for the audience, they are asked to wear masks and social distancing is in place.
What precautions will your opponent need to take to stand a chance against you all in the championship game?
I can’t answer that! [Laughs]
This last question may be more difficult to answer than it sounds. How will you all celebrate if you win the championship?
With the people that brought us to the dance, that being our coaches, teammates and staff. We’re a family. So, a family celebration is in order with a nice dinner, some music and just an all-around good time.
Win or lose, there’s no team I’d rather stand by – a sentiment that I feel many of the players share – and for that reason alone we’re already winners! It’s time to have fun playing the sport we love, representing our city of Lansing! |THIS.
Greater Midwest Football Conference Championship August 22, 4:30PM EST at MAC GOBEL FIELD
[By Mr. Joe Walker | Photo by Dan DeFoy Photography]
