Sports Spotlight: Cole Strehle

Thirteen-year-old Cole Strehle, a football player for the West Orange Bobcats 14U team, refuses to let his health condition dictate what he can and can’t do. Strehle, a left guard for the Bobcats, has asthma but has worked hard to earn his playing time as a starter and inspires his team.

What is the most enjoyable part of playing football?

It’s a really great environment. This year, the coaches have made practice more fun than ever before. They’ve incorporated team bonding into practice, which keeps us motivated. Coach (Steve) Stutsman has coached me all six years and has always understood what I’m going through with my asthma and has really helped me to develop as a player. And playing games are awesome because we get to hit players we don’t know.

What are your responsibilities as a starter for the team?

My primary responsibility is blocking for our great quarterback, Danny, so that he can get the ball to our skill guys. We have some ridiculously good backs and receivers.

You have asthma, but you’re not afraid to go out there and play tackle football. What do you tell yourself before each game?

The asthma doesn’t create any fear because I know that I can get to my inhaler whenever I need to, so I don’t ever think about that being a factor. I try to focus on my responsibilities on the field and to the team. I really enjoy football, and I want to continue to get better at it and build up my stamina because some day I hope to play for West Orange High School.

What are some of your other hobbies?

I like to swim, play video games and hang out with my friends.

How many hours do you train per week? 

We train about six hours a week on the football field, with games on Saturdays that run about two hours. This last spring and over the summer, I started seriously running to increase my stamina and worked my way from one up to three miles. I also do pushups and situps.

Who inspires you?

I look up to my sister, Kayla, because she has had a lot of injuries over the years as a goalkeeper on her soccer teams. She has played through injuries for her team and has always been a team leader. I admire her dedication and aspire to be like her. I’m proud of her as an athlete and as a person.  

Who is your favorite player, and what’s your favorite team?

My favorite team is the Philadelphia Eagles, but I don’t have one specific favorite football player. We do, however, have a lot of great players that I get to play with every week.

–––

Contact Gabby Baquero at [email protected]