West Orange Observer: Sports Spotlight — Bryant Casteel

A senior leader on the Olympia football team, Bryant Casteel is a key member on the defensive side of the ball. Going into his fourth year of varsity football, Casteel’s nose for the ball will come in handy for head coach Travis Gabriel as the Titans ready for the new season.

When did you first get into football?

I started when I was maybe 5 — my whole family plays football. It started on my daddy’s side, and then to my mom’s side, and I watched my cousins — that made me want to play even more.

What’s your favorite part about playing football?

Playing with my team, playing with my boys, hitting people and being physical — all of that. 

What’s the hardest — and best — part about playing at safety?

It’s not that hard, but I’d probably say covering the slots in the post. And my favorite is coming down the hill and catching picks, and I love blitzes. I had five sacks last year against Freedom.

When you’re out on the field, what is your mental approach to a play?

Reading my keys, using my techniques that my coaches taught me and breaking down open field tackles and that type of stuff. I use my surroundings — I watch behind myself.

Before a game, how do you get yourself ready?

With music — Chief Keef, 9lokkNine and stuff like that.

How are you feeling about this week’s regular season kickoff against West Orange High?

It feels great. I don’t like to rush games, because I’m a senior and stuff, but it feels great. I want to see what my boys are going to bring to the table and give them (West Orange High) a run for their money.

This is your final season at Olympia, how are you feeling about that?

It sunk in this Friday. Some part of me feels down, and some parts are ready for the next level. I don’t really want to leave my boys — it’s tough.

What’s been some of the best words of advice you’ve been given?

“Titan training waits on no man” — that’s what we say here.

What happens after you graduate?

I want to go play college football, and pursue my dreams — no matter if it’s D1, D2, D3. That’s all I want to do.

When you get spare time, what do you enjoy doing?

I like to work out, go out and see movies — I just like chilling. I help my mom out, because she is pregnant right now. I clean around the house, I work on football — I still work off the field — and my grades I keep up to date.

What is your favorite post-game meal?

Wings and pizza and a good old Dr. Pepper. I could probably have it every day — that’s my favorite food.