Q&A with �- Ty Kikdow, Millard South

Kildow is a senior captain, but hasn’t played a down this season. The first-team Super-State receiver last year had knee reconstruction surgery last summer and is just completing his rehab.

Q: This hasn’t exactly been what you expected for your senior year, has it?

A: “It’s pretty hard watching them play, not being able to get out there when I think I could make a difference. But I’m a captain and so I know that for me to stay positive is important.”

Q: With those three losses, was there something that got this team turned around?

A: “We started off pretty good and then lost close games to Elkhorn and Millard West and then to Creighton Prep. I think the Millard North game was a step up for us and set the tone for the playoffs. No on has been able to stop us. Our offense gives Bronson (Marsh, the quarterback) a lot of options and we have a great running back in Jordan (Hale). You usually don’t get a chance to play teams over after they beat you. When we saw the bracket and that we could face all three, all of us wanted another chance. We have respect for Millard West. Any Millard battle is a big game. This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance. Everyone believes we can win a state championship.”

Q: When was the hardest time being on the bench?

A: “Right before the first game was tough. It hit me that I wasn’t going to play. And all through the losses, when we were so close and I felt I could have made a difference. With the team winning, it makes me feel a lot better.”

Q: What was your injury and how is the rehab going?

A: “I tore the MCL, ACL and the meniscus. We waited a month to do the surgery so the MCL could heal. Rehab has gone really well. I’ve been keeping contact with my doctors to see if could play.”

Q: What has been your role on this team?

A: “I’m one of the captains and I go to every practice and try to keep the guys motivated. I help with the wide receivers. It’s a whole different point of view on the sideline and has given me more of an appreciation for the game. I hear kids complain about the little stuff and I know not to take it for granted. Coaching has always been an interest for me. But I’m thinking about majoring in biology. Physical therapy would be a great job, or going into medicine.”

Q: Speaking of college, what are your athletic options?

A: “North Dakota offered before the injury. Baseball is still an option, though, and I’m not close to a final decision. I want to see what my options are.”

-- Ryly Jane Hambleton