Joe Hess is a senior on the Edwardsburg football team.

What has been one of your greatest accomplishments as an athlete?

JH: Being captain of the football team. It is an honor and a privilege to even be a part of the team. To be able to lead it is a huge accomplishment for me.

What has been one of your biggest disappointments as an athlete?

JH: Losing at semi-state by two points my sophomore year.

What has been a hardship in your life?

JH: Getting injured on the first play of my first game was hard for me. Since then I have been able to get past and overcome my injury play like I know I can.

Who is a “hero” in your life and why?

JH: My dad. He has always supported me and encouraged me in everything I’ve done. I couldn’t ask for anyone better.

When are you the most nervous while you are competing?

JH: Right before a game. I think I would categorize it as excited opposed to nervous.

Describe an embarrassing athletic moment.

JH: When I was playing halfback, we were about to take a knee to end the game and I went down on a knee with the quarterback coach making fun of me in film the next day.

How do you tend to work out/train when by yourself?

JH: I think I train harder when I am by myself because there are less distractions.

What other sport would you like to compete in if you were not playing yours?

JH: I enjoy playing all sports, but if I wasn’t playing football you would definitely be able to find my on the tennis courts.

Why are sports an important part of a high school experience?

JH: Sports keep students active and healthy. They help build friendships and teach us the importance of teamwork.

How would you give away $50,000?

JH: If I had $50,000, I don’t know if I would give it away. But if I had to, I would give it to charity and help those less fortunate than me.

If you could be the head coach of a team for a year, what team would you choose?

JH: Notre Dame’s football program. Not because I like them, but because they need all the help they can get right now.

If I did not play sports, I would…?

JH: Go crazy. I would have way too much time on my hands. Sports are a part of my life.

What is the most challenging thing for you to do in your sport?

JH: Football is a challenging sport altogether. We’re expected to do thing near to perfection so I would say that is something challenging for me.

If you could change one rule about your sport, what would it be?

JH: No penalties for being “too rough.” We’re playing football. It’s a rough sport. If you think someone is being “too rough” you probably shouldn’t be playing.

What is the best compliment you have ever received?

JH: The one time in my football career, when coach (Kevin) Bartz told me “good job.”

What was the last thing you saw someone do that really impressed you?

JH: When Michigan defender Jordan Lewis had that one-handed interception against Wisconsin.

What is your favorite hobby? Why?

JH: Frisbee golf. Because it’s fun, relaxing and I enjoy it.

Choose one word to describe yourself:

JH: Modest/humble.