When you get to know a guy like Alex Key, you quickly realize there is not much this kid can’t do. As a junior at Derby High School, Key is a starter on the varsity football team playing on the offensive line. A position he loves thanks to the constant contact and battles that go on in the trenches. But it’s not the only place Key will put his athletic abilities to the test. He also enjoys riding motocross.
“I have been playing football at Derby for nine years,” said Key. “Right now, I play left tackle on the offensive line. Besides football I love to workout, race dirt bikes, hunt, fish, and working on cars.”
One reason he loves being a student-athlete at Derby High School is how the community of Derby supports their athletes and encourages them no matter the outcome.
“What makes Derby such a great place to be a student-athlete is the environment. The whole town loves football and loves all the high school sports. There is so much support from everyone,” said Key.
Playing for Derby has taught Key many lessons. One of which is how to take care of your own. A lesson not lost on the junior who spends a lot of time looking out for other people.
“We are a huge family that has been playing together since we were kids. So, we all care about each other and want what’s best for each other,” said Key.
The football field or the bike trails are not the only place Key excels. He works very hard in the classroom as well.
“Academics are very important,” said Key. “I try my hardest to keep straight A’s. My favorite subject is probably industrial graphics, due to the fact that I get to be creative and deal with problem solving.”
When his playing days at Derby High School are over, Key wants to move on to the next level and pursue his degree.
“After I graduate, I will most likely go to college, get a degree in an engineering field, and start a family,” said Key.
Key also enjoys spending time with his friends and family. His approach to life is, “do stuff now that I might not be able to do later,” and something tells us he is living this motto every day.
