Haverford High School linebacker Jack Farrell is Main Line Boys Athlete of the Week

The senior linebacker, a two-time All-Central League first team selection, is the leading tackler in Haverford High School football history. His 50-yard interception return for a tocuhdown was a key play in the Fords’ Thanksgiving Day win against long-time rival Upper Darby. A three-sport athlete, Farrell also plays basketball and lacrosse for the Fords.

Q: Describe for us how the play developed in your interception and 50-yard touchdown run in Haverford’s Thanksgiving Day win against Upper Darby. You mentioned in the game story that you read your keys on that play – can you tell us what keys you read, what you saw, to get you into proper position to make the interception?

A: The defensive line had great pressure all game and nothing was different on that play. I just dropped into the hook curl zone and eyed up the receiver coming across the middle. Than got my eyes on the quarterback and the ball was already on its way in my direction. It hit me right in the hands, then my teammates led the way with blocking, All I had to do was run.

Q: What is your most vivid memory of the Thanksgiving Day win against Upper Darby?

A: The last play on defense. It was fourth down and about 11 or 12 yards to go. We all kinda had that feeling it was gonna be our last play out there. The stands were loud on both sides and you could feel the energy. On the field we all just looked at one another and realized that our high school football careers were basically over.

Q: What does it mean to you to be the leading tackler in Haverford High School football history?

A: I was excited when I heard about it. Coach Gal [Joe Gallagher] didn’t even say anything about that until the Rotary Club lunch in  the day before the game. I was shocked to hear it.

Q: What attributes do you have that you feel are suited for linebacker? What have you found to be the biggest challenge in mastering the linebacker position?

A: I think that it is important to see the whole offensive line, as well as the backfield, when playing linebacker, My coaches taught me all of the mental and physical neccessities to play linebacker. I think the biggest challenge is playing these option teams like the ones we have had to face a lot of this year.

Q: Tell us a little about your on-field leadership responsibilities as a middle linebacker.

A: I have always been someone who likes to talk a lot. Nothing changes on the field – I am always talking to people and going over things.

Q: You wear No. 51 for the Haverford football team. Is there a reason you picked this number?

A: I have worn No. 51 for about six years now. I was watching NFL films and Dick Butkus was on there. He was a linebacker for the Chicago Bears and he could do everything. That is why I wear it.

Q: Tell us a little about your pre-game preparation the day of a game.

A: Pregame I do not do anything special. I do have to tell our defensive coordinator a joke before every game to make sure I am loose.

Q: What do you think you might like to major in at college? Is there a career path that particularly interests you at the present time?

A: Communications or business.

Fun facts – Jack Farrell

Favorite author: Dr. Seuss.

Favorite TV show: Fresh Prince of Bel Air.

Favorite movie: Saving Private Ryan.

Favorite athlete: Connor Barwin.

Favorite team: Philadelphia Eagles.

Favorite place to visit: Abners Cheesteaks in between Chestnut and Walnut Sts. in University City.

Favorite color: Red.

Person I most admire: “Shane Moran. He is one the most tenacious athletes I have met.”

Birth date: July 15, 1999 in Havertown.

Siblings: brother Billy, sister Meghan.

(To be selected as Main Line Boys Athlete of the Week, a student-athlete must first be nominated by his school.)