Gage Laas isn’t measuring the upcoming football season by individual accolades alone. Instead, the Ellsworth standout is focused on earning a larger role and doing whatever his team needs to chase a deep postseason run.
“I am most excited about becoming a contributor for the team,” Laas said. “I am excited to help the team out any way I can. I like playing with the guys, and I’m happy to help them out on the field.”
That team-first approach has driven Laas throughout the offseason. He has spent the summer training at Sharp Performance while also taking part in Ellsworth’s strength program, building both his athleticism and his understanding of the game.
“I have been training with Sharp Performance and lifting with the team to prepare for the season,” Laas said.
One of Laas’ biggest priorities has been developing confidence in his ability to play multiple positions. He believes repetition throughout the summer has helped him become more comfortable wherever the coaching staff needs him.
“I am wanting to improve my confidence at my positions,” Laas said. “I worked on improving my confidence this offseason by getting reps at my positions at camps and doing drills to improve my footwork.”
Laas has set ambitious individual goals for his season. He hopes to earn all-league recognition, record at least three interceptions on defense and expand his knowledge of the offense to maximize his versatility.
“Some goals I have for this season are to make the all-league team, get at least three interceptions, and to learn the offensive playbook better so I know all the skill positions I might end up playing,” he said.
While individual success would be rewarding, Laas is more focused on what the Bearcats can accomplish as a team. He believes Ellsworth has the talent to make a serious postseason push.
“A team goal I have for this season is to make a deep playoff run,” Laas said. “I think we are a good team and can make it very far in the postseason.”
