Talking With Eli Erkapic - St. Rita - Class Of 2026, OT
By: Jenny
Every Football Player Has A Story To Tell
Jersey #71 // Postions: OT, OG , C // Height & Weight : 6’4” 270lbs // Shuttle : 5.1 // Vert: 20” //
Bench : 270lbs for 3 // Squat : 325lbs for 5 // Clean: 185lbs for 5
"Playing at St. Rita and in the CCL is a great honor. I’ve learned so many skills and abilities from my coaches that I can take to the next level. Whatever the future holds in the next level for me I know that I will be a hardworking asset to any collegiate team."-Eli Erkapic
Eli, How did. your junior season go?
The season went great! There were many opportunities and I got to learn from some great coaches and play some great football. We made it to the semi-finals and it was incredible to see my team and I succeed!
What does your off-season training look like?
I workout with my school in a great off-season program. The off-season is my time to get stronger and faster and it’s been going great.
You mention you are working on getting stronger-what part of your game specifically are you working on this off season?
I’ve really started to increase my explosiveness. It’s very important for linemen to be quick and explosive off the ball and that will definitely be me for this upcoming season.
Great! What do you think is the strongest part of your game?
My footwork and strength are a big part of my game. I take a lot of pride in beating my opponents, not only with technique, but also physical ability. I am also a strong minded leader, which translates well to the field to help my team.
What do you like about playing in the trenches?
Playing in the trenches is the only position that hits on every play. It takes a tough person to play on the line. I also enjoy how unselfish the position as you never get the ball but yet still work every play for your team.
Eli, you are a three sport athlete (Football, Wrestling, and Rugby) and take honors and AP classes. How do you manage all of that?
Time management is key to a great student and athlete. I have to stay on top of everything so I don’t fall behind. I enjoy what I do, and know that what i’m doing is hard work, and I embrace it with dedication.
You've had success in all the sports that you play. You recently received an offer to play college Rugby-congrats! What is your main goal out of the three sports?
Thank you! Well, first things first, I’m a football player. I use my sports as tools to make myself sharp and more versatile. My main goal is to take my abilities to the next level in college football.
Are you planning on any college visits or attending any camps this summer?
I am taking a visit to Cornell and I’ve had interests from schools all around the country. I will be attending multiple camps this summer.
If there is one thing you want coaches to know about you, what is it?
I’m a very mentally tough person. This is a trait you can’t teach. I’m always willing to do whatever it takes and I understand that great people do hard things.
If there is one person on your team that you would say is going to have a breakout year this season, who would it be?
I think Ben Perek (C/O 26, OT) and Steven Armbruster (C/O 26, QB) will explode this year. Ben and Steven are one of the hardest workers I know and will be a great asset to our team.
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