ATHLETE OF THE WEEK: Malik Nicholson

The Ocoee Cardinals’ Mighty Mites team (third- and fourth-graders) picked up a big win in Central Florida Youth Football League action late Saturday afternoon, beating up on the South Lake Cowboys for a 31-6 victory. Helping to lead the way for the Cardinals was Malik Nicholson. Malik got the scoring started right away for the Cardinals, running back the opening kickoff for a touchdown. Malik went on to score two more touchdowns to pair with several big plays and plenty of tackles while playing defense, making him our Athlete of the Week.

How old were you when you started playing football?

(I was) 4 or 5.

Which do you like playing better, offense or defense?

Mostly defense.

What’s your favorite position to play?

Running back.

What’s your favorite college football team?

The Oregon Ducks.

What’s your favorite pro football team?

The (Baltimore) Ravens.

What’s your favorite other sport to play?

Basketball.

Who’s your favorite coach?

My dad (Stephon Nicholson).

What do you want to be when you grow up?

A football player.

What’s your favorite video game.

Madden.

What’s your favorite subject in school?

Math.

What game are looking forward to the most?

Mostly this team (the South Lake Cowboys).

What’s your favorite television show?

“The Regular Show.”

What’s your favorite thing about playing football?

Tackling people!

What school do you go to?

Tangelo Park Elementary.

What’s your favorite movie?

I don’t really have a favorite movie.