Varsity Quarterback, Carter Vestermark (11), is a strong asset for Aliso Niguel’s football team due to his strength and accuracy. Vestermark helped contribute to the team’s win last Friday Aug. 23, at home against Laguna Hills.
Verstermark reflects on the game, describing it as one of the most memorable games he’s played so far in his football career. The game was important to him as it was the first time he took on the position of starting quarterback for the Wolverines.
Vestermark has worked his way up the ranks through hard work and determination over the years. Football has been a part of his life since he began playing flag football at 7 years old. Vestermark said that his interest and love for the sport started under the influence of his grandpa.
Vestermark elaborated, “My grandpa played when he was younger and he was also a quarterback…that’s what really sparked my interest.”
In terms of support, Vestermark says that his family, specifically his grandpa and his dad, are an important part of who he is on and off the field. He emphasizes that they are his biggest role models and he looks up to them the most.
He says, “They’ve supported me in everything; they’ve been my role models in life.”
Being the starting quarterback comes with its challenges, but Vestermark takes it head on. He relies on faith to handle the bumps along the way.
He explained, “I usually just let everything happen and don’t worry about anything because I know everything will be taken care of by God. I know someone else is always in control.”
Pregame rituals are an important part of Vestermarks preparation. To stay focused he tries to avoid the chaos of the locker room and takes a moment to pray.
Vestermark provides insight, “I usually pray before every game. It helps me to clear my head and avoid distractions.”
When things get tough, Vestermark finds himself highly motivated by realizing that his role as quarterback extends beyond himself as a player. Knowing his teammates count on him helps him to fulfill his responsibilities as quarterback and bring his strength and athleticism to every game.
“I realize it’s not all about me. Other people are relying on me, and that motivates me to keep pushing forward.”
When asked to give advice for the young athletes looking to follow in his footsteps, he says that you must put in the work to achieve your goals and not get discouraged by the things out of your control.
Vestermark emphasized, “My advice would be to not get in your head. Whatever happens, happens. A lot of stuff you can’t control, but most of it, you just have to put in the time, the effort and the work.”
When asked about Vestermark, football’s Head Coach Calahan said “Well, Carter’s done a lot here since spring. Obviously, he’s taken over Hunter’s big shoes to fill, and he’s done everything we’ve asked him to do. He controls the ball, and he plays really well in our system.”
Vestermark would like to be given the opportunity to play football at a collegiate level after high school. He remains realistic and knows he will be faced with challenges within the next two years of his highschool career, but is ready to face them while playing for the Wolverines.
