Blade Clark knows success on the football field is measured by more than touchdowns and passing yards. For the Derby High School quarterback, the relationships built with his teammates are what make each season memorable.
“I am most excited to compete with all of my teammates,” Clark said. “All the guys around me are what make this sport fun. I know all of them are going to give it their all this year, and I’m really excited to do it with them.”
Clark enters the season after an impressive campaign in which he threw for more than 2,000 yards and 29 touchdowns while playing just eight full games. Derby finished as a substate runner-up, giving the Panthers added motivation as they prepare for another championship run.
Rather than resting on last season’s success, Clark spent the offseason focused on improving every aspect of his game. His schedule often included lifting weights twice a day while also sharpening his quarterback mechanics with respected instructors Dan Dawdy and Jeff Christensen. He also devoted plenty of time to throwing with his Derby teammates, building chemistry before the season begins.
“I’ve been lifting, mostly twice a day,” Clark said. “And I’ve been training with a couple of QB coaches, such as Dan Dawdy and Jeff Christensen. I’ve also been practicing and training with my teammates, to get a good connection with them.”
While Clark’s physical preparation has been extensive, he believes his biggest improvement needs to come in an area that doesn’t show up on the stat sheet.
The senior wants to become a more vocal leader for one of Kansas’ perennial football powers.
“I want to work on being a louder leader,” Clark said. “I’ve been working on getting my confidence up, and my teammates’ encouragement helped with that.”
Clark’s personal goals also reflect his team-first mindset. Rather than chasing individual milestones after last year’s prolific season, he is focused on maximizing every opportunity and helping Derby finish the season on top.
“A goal I have for myself is to give everything I have on the field,” Clark said. “And a goal our team came up with was to win our last game.”
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