High school athletics are full of different voices; each sport has individuals promoting team unity, spirit, and leadership, but many go unheard. One of these voices can be found in Peter LaFleur; most people may know him as the friendly big man on campus or that one football player in their class. As an offensive guard and nose tackle on the football team, he isn’t the first person to receive a share of glory commonly associated with the popularity of football. However, this figure is much more than one might initially assume; not only is he an instrumental part of the football team, but he is an upcoming leader and a great teammate, all while humbly going above and beyond with no desire for personal fame or fortune.
“I’ve started to take a leadership role…as a junior [by] using my voice…to help provide a spark,” said Peter LaFleur. “I’ve learned to be a servant leader because when you play offensive line, you might not get recognized individually, but it is through this that you can help others.”
“My dad is my role model for both football and for being a leader,” said LaFleur. “He has shown me what it means to put others first.”
LaFleur’s hard work and dedication carries to more beyond just leading the team; he places technique and mastery of his positions—regardless of the recognition he gets—as a priority.
“I lifted with the team throughout the spring,” said LaFleur. “I joined wrestling during the winter; everything is working so that the team is set up for another successful year.”
Peter has the goal of playing college football, and hopes that this season will provide him with the film to pursue these goals. In order to achieve this, he understands the work necessary to train and improve in whatever ways possible.
“I am going to be focusing on improving my defensive technique and offensive technique at deeper levels throughout this season and going into the offseason,” said LaFleur.
Peter’s motivation, determination, and commitment to others before himself is truly admirable, and his voice one of many servant leaders present in Saint Viator athletics. These servant leaders, the backbone of all athletics, are present within every sports team, every club, and every activity: all that it takes to find them is to look around.