Micah Kim ’27 & Lius Vasilidias ’27
Calvin Szoradi ‘24, an energetic and optimistic football player, has made quite an impact on EA’s football program. His interest in football started in his junior year of highschool. Szoradi explains “My main sport was shot put, but all of my teammates from shot put played football so I thought I would give it a try.”
Since Szoradi is a relative newcomer to the sport, when asked about his first impression of Calvin on the field, Coach Fairlie explains “initially he struggled, but it was thrilling to witness his rapid improvement. What sets Calvin apart is his “unique” stamina, allowing him to perform at a consistent, high level.”
Szoradi is known for his enthusiasm and ability to lift the spirits of the team. Head Coach of the Football Team Todd Fairlie praises Calvin, saying, “He’s a pleasure to coach. He always has a positive mindset, and always gives his full effort.” Conor Gaul ‘24 reiterates Coach Farilies’s point commenting, “Calvin’s best leadership quality is his energy. Although his energy is a little wild, it never fails to encourage the team.”
Szoradi is also known for his commitment to the football team. Gaul explains, “Calvin has an unwavering commitment to the football team. This quality has a profound impact on his teammates, who look up to him as a standard-setter.” Farilie also remarks, “Calvin has only been here for 15 months, but his commitment to the sport has taken him very far, allowing him to get recruited.” He continues, “this is very inspirational to the younger players on the team who really look up to him and his work-ethic.”
Although a newcomer, Szoradi’s impact on the team has no bounds. Fairlie explains, “Calvin’s biggest contribution to the team lies in his play on both the offensive and defensive lines, a crucial component of the team’s success.” Additionally, Gaul comments, “We lost a lot of guys since last year and Calvin has really stepped up to the challenge. He has been the most impactful player on the d line this year.”
Szoradi’s favorite story from his short career in football was from his win against Malvern last year. Szoradi explains, “Malvern has always been one of the best in the Inter-AC. We knew they would be a very difficult team to beat going in, but we played hard and aggressively to secure the win.”
Gaul’s favorite story of Calvin comes from his junior year. Gaul explains, “At Calvin’s first ever game he absolutely drilled a guy on the sideline, and went on to flex above his body as he was on the ground. He was immediately benched, but it is really a testament to his competitive nature and the energy he brings to the team.”
Calvin eagerly anticipates the atmosphere and support that collegiate football offers, and there’s no doubt that his energy, enthusiasm, and determination will make him an asset to his future college team. When asked what he hopes for Calvin’s collegiate career, Coach Fairlie says, “I hope Calvin has a great experience both on and off the field. And I hope that he wins a championship.” With his journey from novice to gridiron glory, Calvin’s story serves as an inspiration for all those who aim to achieve greatness through perseverance and passion.