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Game Plan

by Carlos Moreno
Mitchell Henry, center right, discusses football with his classmates during a break from their business class. Mitchell usually finds himself in the spotlight, even when he does not look for it.

Mitchell Henry wears number 85 when he plays wide receiver for the Elizabethtown High School football team.

The 17-year-old has been offered football scholarships by the University of Memphis in Tennessee, Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green and Bowling Green State University in Ohio. But he’s still hoping for an offer from the University of Mississippi. Mitchell’s mom says the size and spirit of the Ole Miss football program make it his ideal these days.

The grandson of a Kentucky high school coach, Mitchell loves competition and any activity that takes him outdoors. He has played organized football since he was 5 years old. He’s been on the Elizabethtown High School team since his freshman year, and he sees his future as a clear progression from high school star to sought-after college athlete to the National Football League player.

His dad is not so sure. Football may turn out to have been just a rewarding hobby, he said. But despite the difference of opinion, both of Mitchell’s parents are supportive of their son’s dreams.

A successful student with a particular interest in marine biology, and a popular figure among his 700-plus classmates at Elizabethtown High School, Mitchell still seems most at home on the playing field. However, his long record of athletic success carries a price: Mitchell said he sometimes feels burdened by expectations from friends, family, teammates and coaches to continue his stellar performance. Plus, the rigorous schedule of practices and workouts often leaves him physically drained.

The 2010 homecoming game was Mitchell’s last at Elizabethtown, because he’s graduating this coming spring. Though his individual performance wasn’t his most impressive ever, his team still managed to carry the victory against Louisville’s Moore High School, 45 to 41.

Titus Sublet, 19, embraces Mitchell Henry, left, to wish him luck before the big homecoming game. Titus is a recent graduate of Elizabethtown High School and now attends Elizabethtown Community & Technical College. He used be a part of the EHS football team and is still good friends with Mitchell.
Mitchell Henry, center, takes on 120 pounds during football training. Mitchell, like his teammates at Elizabethtown High School, is expected to incorporate a high-speed and heavy-weightlifting workout in his routines. The football team's goal: keep its strength throughout the season, something Mitchell takes very seriously because of his college football aspirations.
Mitchell Henry, center left, and his teammates take a break from practice. They usually like to joke about game facts and how other teams have performed during the season.
Hillari Caso, right, 17, is escorted by Mitchell Henry during the halftime of the homecoming football game. Hilari said Mitchell, who she considers a friend, is a sweet guy and loves his personality.
Mitchell Henry, right, helped Elizabethtown High School win two important games this season. Those victories will put the team in contention for the playoffs. But Mitchell said he could always do better, even if he sometimes feels exhausted from such efforts.
Mitchell Henry lifts weights during a physical training session that Elizabethtown High School football players must complete for core strength. Mitchell likes to push himself to be better and increase his strength so he can succeed on the field.
Mitchell Henry, far left, has emerged as a leader on the Elizabethtown High School football team.