Athlete of the Week: Deuce Forrester, Windermere football

Both a leader on the gridiron and in the classroom, Windermere High senior Jeffery “Deuce” Forrester II enters his fourth and final high school football season as a vital and versatile returning starter on the interior of the Wolverines’ O-line. He is capable of slotting in comfortably at center, either guard spot and even kicking out to tackle in a pinch. 

Along with his versatility, consistency and size — standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing in at 290 pounds, with a frame that suggests he could get even bigger — Forrester is bound to continue his playing career at the college level. Throw in the fact he is a superstar scholar, currently maintaining a 4.95 GPA, and the opportunities to leverage academic scholarships into a roster spot on the next level are plentiful. He currently holds offers from Marist University, Washington and Lee University, the University of Rochester, and others.

THE BASICS 

Age: 17

Sport: Football

School: Windermere High

Grade: Senior

Q&A

How does it feel to be named Athlete of the Week? 

Rewarding! I get to see all my work being noticed. I’m very thankful for it.

What do you enjoy the most about football?

The physicality of it. Getting to hit people, getting pancakes and creating gaps for my teammates is what makes it so much fun to play. You also get to meet and be around some great players and people.

What’s the biggest lesson you have learned from football?

Teamwork. There is no sport out there that requires more teamwork than football. You learn that you have to do your job, and your teammates have to do their jobs, too. And if one of you doesn’t, there is no play or ball movement. That’s taught me how to create chemistry and develop trust among my teammates.  

What is your favorite football memory?

Probably beating Horizon last season to officially mark our undefeated season. To beat a rival in overtime with teammates whom I’ve played with my whole career made it so special.

Who is your favorite athlete?

As a Tampa Bay Buccaneers fan, I have to go either Vita Vea or Tristian Wirfs. Both are elite players (who) love to dominate with raw strength and technique. 

What is your go-to pre-game meal?

I’d probably say Chick-fil-A: two sandwiches, mac-n-cheese and a large lemonade. A garlic fried chicken bowl from Poke Hana with double meat and spicy mayo is my favorite post-workout meal, though.

What is your favorite non-sports hobby?

I’m a big Lego guy. I grew up building them with my dad, and I guess it’s stuck with me.

What are three things you would take with you to a deserted island?

I’d bring a machete, a fire starter and a fishing rod. I like to fish, so I’d be able to pass the time fishing while also catching food. The machete would be to cut trees down so I could build a shelter, and the fire starter to cook the fish and stay warm.

What is your favorite movie?

The “Lord of the Rings” trilogy. I recently watched them with my dad, and I thought they were very cool.

If you could have dinner with one person — dead or alive — who would it be?

There are many great people, but I would say Jesus, because of his importance to me and the ability to physically see him in action and interact with him would be epic.

If you could go back in time to a specific period in history, when and where would you go?

I think it would be very cool to get to experience life during the Roman Empire.

Looking back, what piece of advice would you give your younger self?

Enjoy every moment you have with your friends and family, because you will never know when it is your last with them.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

I think teleportation would be cool; no more waiting in lines or traffic, and it allows you to go anywhere.

If you could travel to three places in the world, where would you go and why?

Three places I haven’t been that I would like to go are Rome for the food and history; Japan because of its culture and beauty; and Alaska because of its wildlife and scenery.

What is your most controversial food take?

Ketchup and eggs may be one of the grossest combinations out there. 

Does pineapple belong on pizza?

Yes, it tastes great on pizza; if you disagree, you’re childish.