Nathan Black Shines on Both Sides of the Line

Black is 5'11", 200 pounds, and he plays on both the offensive and defensive lines. He never leaves the field, and wouldn't have it any other way.

"He's got a lot of desire, a ton of desire," says Coach Joe Sommers. "He just gives 100 percent every time he does something."

"Hard work is what makes you better," Black admits. "So, ever since I've done anything, whether it be academically or athletically, as long as I work hard I know the harder I work, the better I get. When I first got to South Granville, and they asked me what position I played, I said defensive nose. They said, defensive nose? You don't have the size for that. I said okay, if that's what you all say. I still went out for that position. My eleventh grade year, I was starting over five seniors. I guess it's just hard."

Nathan Black is more impressive as a student. His 4.6 grade point average ranks him second in the South Granville senior class. He gives sports a lot of credit for his academic success.

"Sports disciplines you a lot," Black explains. "It teaches you responsibility, because if you are late for practice, you are going to be in trouble. If you don't bring what you're supposed to, you're going to be in trouble. It teaches you to be responsible and to be organized."

"Nathan is an outstanding student," one South Granville teacher brags. "As a matter of fact, I think the best attributes he has is his contagious sense of humor and his love of learning. He just loves life. He is so happy when he comes into the room. He just wants to learn."

Nathan Black of South Granville High School is this week's winner of the Extra Effort Award.