2023 Player Spotlight/interview with Kaden Sparks from Fairview High School

Kaden Sparks

Fairview High School

Class of 2025

OL/DL


Fairview, like many smaller schools, is struggling with low numbers as far as football goes. As a player and student, how do you go about trying to get more of your friends to come out for football?

With us being a small school, we take pride in our school and community and we try to talk the kids of Westwood into joining the squad but also a brotherhood. We all just have a bond like no other. Most of the upperclassmen have experienced firsthand what it is like to lose every game. We don’t want that for the future of our program.

What were you able to take away from the grid game against West Carter, as far as what you guys must improve on to kick off the season with a win?

First off, I think a major part of the loss was momentum. We need to learn how to keep our momentum going and finish our drives. We will get down in the red zone and just fall flat, we can’t seem to convert in the red zone. It's been a problem for a while now.

Heading into the opening game of the season, Fairview has to face a very tough Bath County team. What must you guys do defensively to stop their powerful ground attack?

We have been practicing very hard these past few weeks. We have been hard on each other and keeping each other in check and making sure everyone is doing their assignments. Coach tells us every day before practice, in order for us to beat Bath, it starts now. we need to lock in and get better every day.

What is the hardest part of playing on both lines?

The hardest part for me is going both ways. I need to play both sides of the ball to have the best impact for my team but where we don’t have as many kids, most of the time I have to just suck it up and play.

Which side of the ball do you feel you are best at?

I feel like I’m much better on the offensive side of the ball. On the offensive line, I get to use my head. I know football and when I get to make a heads-up play and use my brain it’s very rewarding and beneficial.

Which game are you looking forward to the most, along with the reason why?

I am looking forward to Bath Co. the most. We had a great game against them last year and it was close until the 4th quarter. They are a good squad and love to compete. It’s going to be a good game.

How long have you played football, and what is the biggest reason you continue to play?

I have played football for as long as I can remember. The reason I keep playing is because I just love the game. I feel like if I work hard enough I could really make something of myself.

What are your personal goals for the season?

My personal goals for the season aren’t the main concern. I just want to win, but I would really like to make the all-area team this year.

Of the road games you have played in, which stadium has had the best overall atmosphere, along with the things that made it so good?

It has to be Bath County. When we played there last year it was crazy. They had a great turn out and so did we. Their field is nice as well. I remember as they ran out, I was telling the team to lock in, we need to get serious.

What is the best and worst part of a Fairview practice?

The best part of a Fairview practice is making my teammates better every day. These are the guys that will be playing with me on Fridays, so I want them to be the best versions of themselves. I always work as hard as I can to make them better. The worst part is the numbers. We don’t have as many kids as everyone else. Sometimes it makes it hard to run a scout team and other things.

Who is the best player you have ever gone up against in a game, along with the team he played for?

Honestly, it has to be Phelps from Paintsville. That kid ran all over us and we couldn’t do a thing about it.

What are your thoughts on girls playing football?

I think it’s good for them. If they truly want to play and they can benefit the team I’m all for it.

What is your all-time favorite movie?

My all-time favorite movie has to be The Hangover. Classic

What scares you?

Heights

Who are your favorite and least favorite teams?

My favorite team is the Dallas Cowboys and my least favorite is the Eagles