Link to full article with pics sent by the player.

https://hearltlandfan15.blogspot.com/2024/04/2024-interview-with-state-champion-qb.html
 

Zane Cartwright

Mayfield High School

QB

2024

5’11 180lbs

Centre College

What are you going to miss the most about playing high school football? 

I’ll miss winning the packed-out playoff games at War Memorial during November and being a part of the best program in the country.

What was the biggest lesson you were able to learn from playing high school sports that you can use later in life?

It is important to look past how you are viewed by outsiders, both good and bad.

What was your most memorable moment as a high school football player?
 
Taking a knee in victory formation in the state championship this past season.

What game, out of all of the games, will you remember the most, along with the reason why?

Beating LCA at home during the 3rd round of the playoffs this year. They had a studded team and were picked to win by just about everyone, so there was an extreme amount of pressure and excitement leading up to and throughout that night. It was a statement when the fireworks sounded off and the clock hit zero.

In all of the defenses you faced during your high school career, which one was the best, along with the reasons they were so good?

2021 Beechwood. We played them my sophomore year away for the semifinal game in 9-degree temps, and they didn’t budge. I believe they had a large number of seniors; they were very physical, and they shut us down offensively. I think they went 15-0 that year.

What do you believe is your strongest attribute as a quarterback?

I’m a competitor and hate losing more than I like winning. I had envisioned winning a state championship at Mayfield since 3rd grade, so I always worked toward that goal and always tried to push my teammates to better themselves daily and keep that mindset as well. 

What do you improve on the most before taking the field as a college quarterback?

I want to increase my footwork abilities and keep the mindset of always getting better.

What are you doing before reporting to college to help you improve your game?

I’m working to improve my footwork and strength and taking injury prevention measures as well.

If possible, will you try and take in any Mayfield high school games this season?

If possible, I’d love to make it to the Paducah Tilghman game and the Thanksgiving week semi-finals game as well.

Would you name some of the schools that recruited you?

Murray State, Georgetown, Lindsey Wilson, Greenville, Kentucky Wesleyan, and Centre were my offers.

What made you choose Centre College?

They showed me attention early on, and I was very impressed with the effort they put forth to get my commitment as well as a good connection with the coaching staff.

What was the best and worst part of the recruiting process?

It was cool to be recruited for my talents and hear coaches praise my abilities; however, it can be distracting and very confusing to try to see through the deception and wordplay that teams and coaches will use so that they can recruit the best team possible.

Who is your favorite athlete?

Either Tim Tebow or Baker Mayfield.
Baker was the peak of my childhood college football interest, but I’ve always loved watching Tebow highlights and the way he impacted the game and his team.

Louisville or Kentucky, when it comes to rooting for?

Kentucky

Who is your role model?

My father’s always set a great example for me in being meek without sacrificing being a man and a leader. He is a standard for me in having Christian faith as the head of the family.

Zane  became a great player. He had mental toughness that was unmatched. I enjoyed watching him get better every year and it ended with a State Championship. He will be missed.