Sports Spotlight - West Orange Times & Observer: Kyle Burdue

Kyle Burdue has helped anchor a Legacy Charter defense that has allowed just six points over two games.

By Steven Ryzewski
| 1:45 p.m. September 8, 2016

Sports

Through two games this season, the Legacy Charter defense has allowed just six points. Helping to lead the way has been senior safety Kyle Burdue. Burdue recorded 16 tackles against First Academy-Leesburg and nine tackles Sept. 2 against Lake Mary Prep. He has also returned a fumble for a touchdown.

The defense has gotten off to a strong start this fall. Why has that been the case?

I think our defense does so well because we work well as a team. … I think people have overlooked us this year, and that makes us want to work harder and push harder to prove them wrong.

You tallied 16 tackles in Week One. Were you in a bit of zone on defense?

Yeah, I think so. We were (defending) in our own red zone a lot, and I wanted to get us out of there. I just wanted to push myself hard and always flow to the ball no matter what.

What was it like to score a touchdown on defense?

I had never scored a touchdown on defense before — it was awesome.

Which of your upcoming games are you most looking forward to?

I’m looking forward to the Windermere Prep game. I think it’s our Homecoming Game, and it’s a challenging game. I’m looking forward to working hard to compete with them (the Lakers).

Which teammate on the defense are you the most in sync with?

I think it’s Tomas Perez, the middle linebacker. (He) and I are always calling out the strong side and all the receivers, letting everybody know (what to do). Also Zachary Kelley, our cornerback, (because) he’s also my holder (on kicks) and I practice with him a lot in the offseason.

What are you hoping to study in college?

If I go to college, I want to be a wildlife biologist and study conservation. I do a lot of hunting and fishing, so I’m out in nature a lot.

Do you have any good hunting or fishing stories?

Coach (Jarrett) Wiggers and I caught an alligator that was 12 foot, 10 inches the day after our Homecoming Game in 2015. That was a lot of fun.

What is your favorite pro football team?

My favorite pro team is the Green Bay Packers because we actually know the coach (Mike McCarthy). My mom roomed with his sister in college, so when he came down to Tampa, we were able to go see him and meet him.