Freshman Carson Williams set up the ball, ready to snap it. Nerves flowed through him at the Mt Miguel game on Sept. 19, as this was his first varsity game; not only that, but he was the first freshman to play on varsity in 11 years, with the last being Tate Martell in 2013.
Freshmen players typically spend their first year of High School football on the freshman team, adjusting to changes in the game, increased pressure, and forming team bonds.
However, Williams has already gotten a taste of the varsity game.
Williams, better known by the nickname “Meatball,” was pulled up to play in his first varsity game, stepping in as a long snapper when the team needed help due to injuries.
For Williams, the chance was exciting and nerve-racking.
“They didn’t treat me any differently just because I was a freshman. They all took care of me, and I already knew a lot of the guys, so it wasn’t like being around strangers,” Williams said.
Varsity Coach Brandon Harris praised Williams for his maturity and willingness to jump into the game.
“He snapped consistently where the ball needs to be, and he has a short snap time. That maturity comes in part from growing up in a football family,” Harris said.
His father, English teacher Kyle Williams, was the Varsity Head Coach for four years and now coaches freshmen. He has also coached football at Fallbrook and Westview.
“He truly loves the game. Seeing him develop over the years has been really exciting,” Kyle Williams said.
“I was fortunate to coach Carson’s 8th-grade Pop Warner team last year,” Williams said.
While he enjoyed the varsity experience, Williams would like to continue on the freshman team for now.
“On varsity, I’d only get to long snap, but I also play running back and safety. I just want to develop in my other spots and get more play time,” Williams said.
One of his favorite things about the freshman football season so far was his three-touchdown game against Scripps Ranch on Aug. 21, which helped his team win 35-6. On the freshman team, he has been a vital member in crucial wins against Scripps Ranch 35-6, on Aug. 21, Ramona 35-0, on August 28, and El Camino 34-0, on Oct. 2. Overall, the freshman team is 3-2 overall and 1-0 in League. The next freshman game is on Oct. 16 against Torrey Pines High School.
Williams hopes to long snap in college and maybe even follow in his father’s footsteps as a coach.
“Meatball” is proving that even as a freshman, he is striving for greatness wherever he is needed.
He is a versatile player who brings success to both the freshman and Varsity football teams.
