One big game on Bobek's horizon: All-American Bowl
There are a lot of big football games in Brian Bobek's future.
And the Fremd senior offensive lineman's selection to play in one of the most prestigious ones at the high school level was celebrated Thursday afternoon in Palatine.
The Ohio State recruit will be among the country's top seniors playing in the nationally televised U.S. Army All-American Bowl on Jan. 8, 2011 at San Antonio's Alamodome.
"I'm pretty excited for the opportunity to play in such a big game," said Bobek, who watched former teammate and Notre Dame freshman offensive lineman Christian Lombard play in last year's event. "It gives me a chance to play against some of the best guys in the country and it's a head start for college. It's a great honor to be in this game."
Bobek's parents and grandparents were there to take part in the ceremony. So were his Fremd teammates and coaches as the fanfare for Bobek included a jersey presentation.
Those teammates and coaches were also on Bobek's mind with some of the biggest games coming up in his high school career.
Starting with tonight's visit from Hoffman Estates, Fremd needs to win the final four of the regular season to make sure there is a postseason for the 16th straight time.
"In the end I'm still thinking about our team," Bobek said of the 1-4 Vikings, "and that we have to get it together and get moving."
That's included the 6-foot-3, 275-pound Bobek moving from his projected college position of center to guard.
"That's what's best for the team right now and I'm doing it for that reason," Bobek said. "It also helps me show what I can do in different ways."
Bobek is trying to make a difference in another area. The self-described quiet kid said he's taken on the challenge to be more of a vocal leader.
Especially at a time the Vikings need it most.
"Everyone is still very confident," Bobek said. "We've had a lot of tough games that were close and down to the wire, but we know we can play with anybody.
"We're all very positive and we know we can the rest of our games and make the playoffs."
It won't be easy with cross-town rival Palatine and undefeated Barrington still on the horizon. The last thing Bobek wants is a longer-than-usual offseason before his trip to San Antonio.
"It seemed like it was kind of far out there before," Bobek said of the chance to play in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl. "I kept it in the back of my mind and thought maybe there was a chance if I kept working hard."
Now Bobek hopes that hard work will pay off with another chance for Fremd to play postseason football.
mmaciaszek@dailyherald.com
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