2024 PFN Player Profile: Getting To Know West Perry Running back, outside linebacker, safety Brad Hockenberry

Tagged under: District 3, News, Player Previews

contributor | July 28, 2024

Brad Hockenberry
West Perry
2025
Jersey #44
Running back, outside linebacker, safety
Height and weight: 5’10, 185
Other sports: track and field
Awards won/earned: first-team all-conference linebacker; second-team all-conference running back; second-team all-conference linebacker
Twitter info: @Brad_Hock44

Coach says: “Brad is a very explosive tailback. He follows his blocks well and can get the tough yards when he has to. He is also an aggressive blocker on the edge. Brad also plays outside linebacker and has great instincts. He has great tackling skills and keeps opposing backs from getting the edge”.

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How long have you played football, along with the reasons you continue to play?

I started playing football in 6th grade, so this will be my 7th year playing. I play football because I genuinely love the sport. I love the brotherhood, I love the energy on Friday nights, and I love the adrenaline rush out on the field. Nothing matches it.

With this being your final high school season, have you found yourself preparing any differently?

No, it’s been the same mindset and same workouts every year. Just more motivation because it’s going to be the last ride.

What has been the highlight of your football career so far?

The highlight of my high school career was beating Trinity this past year. It was the craziest game I have ever played, and it could not have ended in a better way.

What was the high point of the 2023 season?

The high point for us in the 2023 season was beating Lancaster Catholic in the district semi-finals. We played a great game, and everyone was electric while we did it.

Who is the toughest teammate to face in practice?

The toughest teammate to go against in practice was always Caleb Gutshall. He has graduated now, but he was always aggressive, and we got competitive.

What is your favorite part of practice?

My favorite part of practice is when we go on team offense with a live clock. It really simulates a game and prepares us for in-game situations.

Where should the state finals be held?

The state finals should be at Beaver Stadium. I think it would be so cool to play there and have that atmosphere around the players.

What is the strongest part of your game?

I think the best part of my game is breaking tackles and making plays. I just want to try to make big things happen in games to help us win.

During the off-season, what have you been able to accomplish to aid you in being a better player?

This offseason, I have been working extremely hard. I lift six times a week while also doing agility workouts almost every day of the week. I have been doing lots of plyometrics and have been improving my vertical and speed. I have put up a lot of weight on my squat and clean, and I have gained a bit of weight and speed.

How often do you watch game films on your own?

I watch a lot of films. I usually watch a couple hours in advance of every game so I know what we are going up against and what matchups we are going to have. It really helps me to understand other teams and what they are trying to do.

What has been the best advice you have been given when it comes to playing sports, and who gave you the advice?

Probably the best advice I have ever gotten is that men get up and go to work. Coach Boden told me this quote, and it’s something that I like to live my life by. It doesn’t matter if it’s hard; you get up, do it, and don’t complain.

If you are invited to one of the all-star games after the season, will you play in it?

Yes.

What is your favorite type of music?

I like 80’s rock; it’s what I grew up listening to, and I love the bands from back in the day.

Who are your role models?

My biggest role model is my dad. My dad is the hardest worker I know; he never complains or quits. He has always been someone I look up to.

Who is your favorite athlete?

My favorite athlete of all time is Bo Jackson. I believe he is the goat.

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