Greenbrier East linebacker Garrett Bennett has been making plays for the Spartans defense for a few years now. Whether it has been sacking the quarterback, stuffing a running back in the backfield or recovering fumbles, Bennett is a playmaker that no one can deny.
And even though defense is still his forte, Bennett is now transitioning to the offensive side of the ball as well as evidenced by his 64 yards rushing and two touchdowns.
One of those touchdowns was an impressive 26-yard run in last week’s 56-14 win over Buckhannon-Upshur.
When asked which one is more satisfying, a sack or a long touchdown run, Bennett did not hesitate with an answer.
“I like being able to help the team any way that I can. Since I do not get very many, I would say a long touchdown run,” he said.
With the Spartans in the midst of a bye week and 3-1 on the season, Bennett thinks he and his teammates are pretty satisfied with their record at this point.
“I feel we are just where we thought we would be. The team is playing well and we are working on areas we need to improve at. I feel we are improving every week,” he said.
Speaking of the off-week, it is a time when teams try to get in some extra situational work and film study, and the 5-foot-10 inch, 225 pound senior is just fine with that approach.
“The team is back to focusing on fundamentals and rest. Not too serious this week,” Bennett said firmly.
Bennett is big on family values and has an excellent one behind him. From his parents to his grandparents and others in between, he knows someone will always be in attendance.
“I have 100% family support and it means everything to me. It feels good knowing your family is backing you,” Bennett stated.
As for goals for the rest of this season, Bennett and his team just want to win.
“I want to host a playoff home game and win the state championship,” Bennett said.
As far as after high school is concerned, Bennett knows what he wants to do, but where he will do it is still up for a decision.
“I want to get a 4 year degree from a football scholarship and one day become a college football coach,” he concluded.
Fans can see Bennett and the Spartans back on the field next Friday, October 1 at Mingo Central.
