Andale High School junior Elijah Rowland loves the bright lights on Friday night. The energy before the game helps fuel Rowland and his teammates when they take the field. 

“It’s a great feeling having a town of fans cheering you on every Friday night. They make a small town of Andale feel so much bigger with all the support they give us,” said Rowland. 

As a member of the football team, Rowland cares for his teammates like brothers. Through the tough practices and heat of the summer, to picking each other up when things don’t go their way, Rowland knows they always have his back. 

“What I love about my team and teammates is that no matter what they always have my back. If you are having a rough practice or a bad game they are there to help you keep your cool,” said Rowland. 

Together they are building a lifetime of memories, but like with any team there are always a few moments that stand out. 

“Besides winning state my other favorite memory is coach Deagan, our offensive line coach twerking because his birthday is the same day as Beyoncé’s. He isn’t a small guy either,” said Rowland. 

Also a basketball player and track athlete, Rowland’s approach academics is exactly what a coach wants in a player. 

“My academics are by far the most important thing to me. I love football but keeping good grades comes before that,” said Rowland. 

That drive and commitment comes from his upbringing. Rowland looks to his father for advice on life, football and any other issue that may arise. 

“My dad has been a huge influence to me because he didn’t get the chance to play sports in high school because he came from a less wealthy family. I play for him and my whole family and they are always there to give me good advice on what I can improve upon,” said Rowland. 

His future may include college, but Rowland is keeping his options open at the moment. 

“As of now I don’t have any plans after I graduate but I am keeping my options open and would love to play a sport in college,” Rowland said. 

But for now, being part of the Andale family is enough.

“The best thing is being noticed, you walk down the halls in school and someone will say “good game,” and that just puts you in a good mood for the rest of the day,” said Rowland. 

Away from athletics and school, Rowland enjoys spending time with family and friends. 

“In my free time I love hanging out with my friends and family. I am one of ten children so it is always interesting at my house that’s for sure. I also enjoy taking naps when I can,” Rowland said. “This spring I am looking forward to the weather definitely getting warmer and being able to go the lake again with the boys.”