Get to know Geneva quarterback, rising sophomore Tony Chahino
GENEVA, Ill. — Tony Chahino, a sophomore at Geneva High School, is thrilled to return to the football field this fall. He started playing football at the age of 5 for Tri-City Chargers, continued in middle school during 7th & 8th grade, and is now one of the Varsity quarterbacks for the Geneva Vikings. While he excelled at all positions during his playing time, Quarterback was always his main position. In addition to football, Tony also played soccer for many years with his leading position as a midfielder. He played for Chicago Soccer Academy on the 2006 travel team, a highly skilled team that won many championships, however, decided to focus solely on football once high school started.
When asked what he loves most about football, Tony told us the friendships he has built with teammates is what comes to mind. “Every day you practice with them, then on Friday night under the lights you get to go out and play the game to the best of your abilities – and that is one of the best and most fun experiences you can have,” Tony shared. Tony continued that his biggest challenge, especially in the position as quarterback, is staying calm and focused under pressure. “It used to be very hard for me to make a mistake and easily forget about it and move on to the next play. Now that I have become older and more mature, I’ve realized that it’s natural and a part of the game to make a mistake. I’ve become better at staying calm and putting my focus into the next play,” he explained.
The best piece of advice Tony was ever given came from his Quarterback Coach, Mike Hohensee, who told him, “You control how great you can be.” Along these lines, Tony also remembers important guidance that to be a great leader, you must always encourage your teammates to become better. Being a member of a team has taught Tony a lot, but the key takeaway has been how to work as one unit. As every stellar athlete endures mistakes, Tony told us about one incident that involved losing his temper out of frustration. Afterwards, he noticed the effects and impacts it had on himself, along with his teammates, as it brought them down. Once regaining his cool, Tony apologized to his teammates, huddled them together for a pep talk to get the team back on their feet, and they ended up winning the game.
When not on the football field, Tony enjoys spending time with friends, and strives to reach his personal goal of becoming the best, making it to D1.
“Watch out for the Geneva Vikings football team these coming years, we’re back,” Tony stated.
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