Ranked at No. 30 in the state for punting and No. 53 for kicking is Senior Pedro Velasquez. Winning player of the game twice, Velasquez has brought great energy to the Elkhart Lions Football team so far this season.Velasquez’s longest in-game punt was 70 yards, and his longest kickoff came in at 65 yards. Not only has Velasquez done outstanding in those two areas, his longest field goal was 43 yards. 

Starting off rough due to nerves, #99 has won over Elkhart High School’s heart. “My favorite thing about being part of the football team are the bonds I have built with all the boys and the competitiveness it brings out in everyone,” Velasquez states. “I’m sad the season is coming to an end with senior night this Friday and Sectionals right around the corner.” Finishing off, he adds, “I’m so grateful for all the wonderful memories I have created.” 

Friday, Oct. 15, Rice Field will be hosting the Elkhart vs. New Prairie game. With that being the last actual game of the season before Sectionals, Velasquez says, “I’m going to go out and play with my whole heart. This game is just one more thing preparing me for when we face off against Penn on Oct. 29.” After “the jersey” has been put on and a Peach Mango Bang has been shotgunned, Velasquez will be ready for kickoff with an average of 57 yards.

Throughout his career, #99 has shown great passion for the game of football. “Once I step on the field, everything goes away and in that moment I’m focused on one thing–the ball,” Velasquez said. “Without football, my life would revolve around work,” he admits. “I couldn’t imagine a better senior season!” Velasquez exclaimed. Pedro Velasquez, #99, has brought out the best of the Elkhart Lions  at EHS. It will be tough for the player who steps in to try and fill his shoes next season.