Athlete of the Week: 10 questions with Anthony Aguilar, New Trier football

Anthony Aguilar is a senior pass rusher for the Trevians. As a junior, he was among the team leaders in quarterback hurries and tackles for loss.

1. Do you have any pregame rituals or superstitions?

For sure. I get a good snack, a healthy snack, and often pray in the corner, for my teammates and for me. That’s my pregame ritual.

2. What would you like to do after high school?

For college, definitely play football and major in finance. The ultimate goal is to get drafted into the NFL. But Plan B is to be a financial analyst.

3. Who is your favorite athlete?

I have two. I can’t call one my favorite. My favorite soccer player is Cristiano Ronaldo, and football player is Micah Parsons (DE-Dallas Cowboys). I grew up watching soccer, and Ronaldo was always my favorite. I love the way he scores and his celebrations. And Micah Parsons, I’ve studied his game and his moves and love his drive.

4. Why do you enjoy being a pass rusher?

I like being unpredictable for sure and having the opportunity to sack the quarterback and ruin a play. I love that. But I really like being unpredictable. Pass rushing is like an art. That’s one of my favorite things about it.

5. When did you start to take football seriously?

Freshman year, I knew I was good at it, good at contact, but it was not that serious. Then sophomore year, they put me on the (defensive) line and from there, I just shot of. I got way better. … Sophomore year, when I played D-line, that’s when I got serious.

6. If you could play another sport, what would it be?

I’d definitely do basketball. I’ve always played for fun. I love basketball. I love watching basketball.

7. What is your favorite thing to do off the field?

I love spending family time, like movie night with my family. We get together and watch movies we haven’t watched before.

8. If you’re in Walgreens with a couple bucks, what are you buying?

I’m definitely going to the candy aisle and buying a Twix or Reese’s cups. Those are my favorites.

9. What is something people don’t know about you?

I’m actually really good at singing. I think I’m good at singing. I love to do it and no one knows that about me.

10. What can this team accomplish this season?

We feel like there’s nothing we can’t accomplish. Compared to last year, it feels different. I believe we could win a state championship. I believe that.

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