QB McDonald keeps on fighting for Warriors football team

Leadership can win you football games. But leadership in times of struggle and failure can be ultimately more important to a group of young athletes.

Senior captain Jared McDonald, who starts on both sides of the ball for the Warriors as quarterback and safety, continues to lead by example as the Warriors struggle through a winless season in 2019.

"Jared is a true competitor and gives his all each Friday for Fallbrook," varsity head coach Troy Everhart said. "Jared's willingness to compete on both offense and defense for the benefit of the team (is what makes him special)."

As one of six seniors on this year's varsity team, McDonald is one of the team's captains. Because of the low numbers on the varsity team and inexperience at key positions, McDonald is often found scrambling for his life on offense and making touchdown-saving tackles on defense.

And while he can become frustrated, he doesn't give up. That's what leaders do.

"The season hasn't been going how I wanted it to be, but you always gotta keep your head up and fight for every yard," McDonald said. "I'd personally say my team has made dramatic improvements from the beginning of the year and we're only getting better. We just need to erase silly mistakes, block one more guy, fill in our gaps, and just tackle; and before you know it, we'll be winning."

More than winning, he wants to change the program's culture.

"My goal this year is to change the culture Fallbrook High has inputted about football," McDonald said. "I want these lowerclassmen ballers to stick with football and make Fallbrook football like it used to be.

"If this season doesn't go well, I at least want to be the steppingstone for these freshmen studs and teach them every trick and tip."

He said he has personal goals as well.

"I'm always trying to make my family and close friends proud," McDonald said. "They're the reason I am where I am and such a blessing to have. I also want to win. Yes, it's sad saying that, but if you follow our games, you'll see that we're close to our goals. We just need to capitalize on the opportunities our coaches provide and everything will go our way."

When the season is over, McDonald will move on and look forward to the rugby and lacrosse season. So far, he hasn't received any scholarship offers.

"I'm sorry to say this, but I do not plan to play football in college," he said. "I'm more eager about my lacrosse chances and goals."

One of those goals is to move onto college next fall, and he's got plans.

"I want to go to the University of Utah for a business major, come home with that degree and knock out the police academy," he said.

Serving the community is something he already does as a member of ASB, serving as Athletic Commissioner.

"I'm also apart of CREW, where we hang out and befriend students who have special needs or are disabled," McDonald said.

He said he has a lot of people to thank for his athletic experiences and support.

"I'll, of course, thank my parents, coaches and players, but one coach stands out the most," McDonald said. "Coach Don, who was my quarterback coach back in Pop Warner, has truly been there for me through every head down or humbling experience. He sends me the longest, most inspirational texts before every game and really knows how to motivate me. Without him, I wouldn't even be playing football and wouldn't have established the skills and lessons learned from such a high asking sport. So, thank you, coach Don, my No. 1 fan and the best boxing announcer."

Learn more about Jared McDonald

Favorite Movie?

More for appropriate audiences, but "The Longest Yard"

Favorite TV show?

Never had one.

Favorite Musical Artist?

Pearl Jam

Favorite Athlete?

Drew Brees, the man has perfected his craft and really has the habits/ mentality everyone should have.

Favorite Subject in School?

History

Favorite Teacher/Coach?

Mr. Martinez

Jeff Pack can be reached by email at [email protected].