Staff Writer Lyn Jarrell sits down with sophomore football player Robert (Robbie) Stilley to talk obstacles, goals, and inspiration.

GENESIS: What made you start playing sports?

Robbie: My dad, actually. He played before, so I wanted to, too.

G: If you could play any sport that you haven’t already, what sport would you play? Why? 

R: I’d play baseball, just because it’s a sport that isn’t quite like football.

G: What is your favorite sport to play? To watch?

R: Football is my favorite sport to play and watch. Especially college football.

G: When did you start playing sports?

R: I started playing sports in third grade.

G: Do you plan on playing sports in college? After college? 

R: Yes, I plan to play in college and after college.

G: What are your greatest achievements in sports? 

R: My greatest achievements are the times that I’ve succeeded, even when it seemed like I wouldn’t have. Especially scoring. 

G: What are your least favorite sports to play? To watch?

R: Basketball is my least favorite sport to play and watch. It’s just boring to me.

G: If you could go back in time, what advice would you give yourself, regarding sports?

R: I’d tell myself to not be as bad at it as I was. To put more effort into it.

G: If you could give advice to anyone interested in sports, what advice would you give?

R: I’d tell them to make sure they are willing to put in the effort needed and to put in the work, because joining a sport is a commitment you make, to not only yourself, but also to the team.

G: Who inspires you, in sports?

R: My dad inspires me in sports.

G: What drives your performance in sports?

R: The desire to be good. 

G: Is there anything you wish to gain from playing sports?

R: Not really. There really isn’t anything I can think of that I’d wish to gain from sports. At least, not right now.

G: What are your goals, regarding sports?

R: To not suck at it. To be better.

G: What are your struggles in athletics?

R: Not just for me, but a major struggle regarding the team overall, is communication. 

G: Do you have any regrets, regarding sports?

R: I regret the times that I’ve made mistakes that were so easy not to make.

G: What are you most proud of?

R: I’m proud of the progress I’ve made.

G: If you could go back in time, what would you do differently, regarding sports?

R: I’d put more effort into it. I’d try to take it more seriously.

G: Are there any obstacles that you have overcome?

R: Not really any obstacles. I’ve overcome my own doubts and the doubts of others.

G: What would you say to your coaches, if you were able to say anything at all?

R: I’d tell them to be more communicative. That’s a big problem they have: miscommunication. But I’d also thank them for the opportunities they’ve given me, as well. The moments I’ve had are the ones that have led me to where I am today, even if they were bad and/or good moments in sports.