A-K Valley football Q&A with Freeport’s Conor Selinger
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Thursday, August 24, 2017 | 12:12 AM
After starring as Freeport's feature back as a sophomore, Conor Selinger is poised for a breakout season as the young, yet experienced Yellowjackets look to get back in the WPIAL Class 3A postseason picture.
Selinger finished second on the team with 529 rushing yards last season, behind junior quarterback Austin Romanchack, and tied for the team lead in rushing touchdowns with five.
“Conor is a downhill and tough runner,” Freeport coach John Gaillot said. “He reads defenses extremely well.”
On the defensive side of the ball, Selinger finished first on the team in sacks (5 1⁄2) while racking up 42 total tackles through nine games.
After going through the grind of his first complete season as a sophomore starter, the 180-pound Selinger bulked up by adding 20 pounds to his 5-foot-9 frame.
“Conor put on a lot of muscle mass this offseason,” Gaillot said. “He is bigger, faster and stronger than last year.”
What's your favorite position, running back or linebacker?
I'd have to say linebacker now.
Coach Gaillot said you grew bigger during the offseason. What was your offseason routine?
I lifted six days a week, and two days a week I would go do speed and agility training with a trainer in Cranberry.
Last year's scrimmage at Yough got pretty physical. How much are you looking forward to Friday's home game versus the Cougars?
I'm very excited; the whole team is. Last year, we didn't get to play to our full potential because we only got a set number of plays.
Which Allegheny Conference game do you have circled on your schedule?
I'd have to say Burrell.
Freeport returns eight players from last year's offense; are the Yellowjackets a dark horse to win the conference?
I think we are.
What was the biggest lesson you learned from last season?
A lot about leadership, on and off the field.
What does Freeport need to do to reach the postseason?
We need to keep our heads on our shoulders, play football, and play to our full potential.
Why do you wear No. 4?
When I played youth football I picked No. 76 and my dad said that wouldn't work and then picked No. 4.
Which player on your team is poised to have a breakout season?
Luke Kennedy. He's a senior wideout. I think that he's going to do some good things this season.
Who is your favorite football player?
It would be Le'Veon Bell.
What are your favorite college and NFL football teams?
The Steelers and Penn State.
Do you have a nickname?
My freshman year I got a nickname from the football team, and it's “Mom.” Now, only the seniors call me that.
Who has the best nickname on the team?
Matt Charlton. They call him “Schmeebock.”
William Whalen is a freelance writer.
Tags: Freeport
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