This season, the Southmoreland football team had high hopes of breaking through to the WPIAL Class AA playoffs for the first time in 36 years.
The Scotties came up short in their playoff quest, but that doesn't mean there was a shortage of strong performers. Senior left tackle and defensive lineman Doug Leighty had a fine season. On Friday, Leighty and the rest of the seniors on Southmoreland's team will end their high school football careers with a home game against rival Mt. Pleasant.
Q: How would you describe the past four seasons as a football player for Southmoreland?
A: The last four years have been eventful, and it's been a blessing to play football here. I thank God every day for the opportunity to do it, and I'll miss it very much.
Q: What's it like to know that this Friday will be your last high school football game?
A: It hit me (on Monday). Coach (Mark) Adams called all the seniors in and was talking about how this would be our last week. That's when it really hit me. It's very sad.
Q: What does it mean to be able to take the field against rival Mt. Pleasant in your final game?
A: It's going to be exciting. It's always exciting no matter what sport we play them.
Q: What is your most memorable moment in football?
A: Definitely my first game my freshman season starting against Jeannette. It was a feeling I can't describe. It was awesome.
Q: What other sports do you play at Southmoreland?
A: I play basketball and baseball.
Q: What words of wisdom would you give to younger players?
A: Always work hard because you never know who is watching and what that can lead to in the future.
Q: What are your future plans?
A: Hopefully continue my education and hopefully play football as well. I want to study business.
Q: When you aren't playing football, what do you enjoy doing?
A: I like hanging out with my friends, watching football with family and friends.
Q: Who has been the most influential person on your football career?
A: There are so many, but I have to say my parents. They have given me everything a kid could ask for, and I want to be able to give everything back to them.
Q: What is your favorite subject in school?
A: History
Q: Favorite food?
A: Steak
Q: Favorite music?
A: It's a mixture between rap and rock and roll.
Q: Favorite TV show?
A: “NCIS.”
Jason Black is the local sports editor of the Daily Courier. Reach him at jblack@tribweb.com.
