Whether its dodging the opponents’ tackles or pushing his teammates to get better at practice, Reggie Terrell ’17 is constantly moving his team forward. The varsity running back may not be the most intimidating on the field, standing at only 5-foot 9-inches, but the amount of work ethic, passion and dedication he demonstrates for both the sport and his team gives him an advantage over other players.

“Reggie has been our main running back throughout this season,” Varsity Football Head Coach Kurt Weinberg said. “He is athletic and powerful, and he has been hugely important in our success on the field. Along the way he has shown great work ethic and commitment to the team.”

Contributing to the teams success through his offensive capabilities and leadership, Terrell makes a substantial impact on the football team, as did LT’s previous running back, Leonard Ross ‘15.

“I knew that when [Ross] left to play for Miami of Ohio, it was time for me to step up my game at running back,” Terrell said. “Leonard and I were friends that were always helping each other get better. He was a great football player and he taught me a lot when we practiced together.”

Terrell is constantly motivating his team with his tough mentality and infectious energy, however he also has developed into a great leader and friend.

“Since LT football freshman year, Reggie has become a lot bigger, faster and stronger,” varsity cornerback and wide receiver Antwan Thigpen ’17 said. “Reggie is always putting in the extra effort to improve his game, but at the same time he manages to be a great friend.”

During the Sept. 4 game against Morton, Terrell made an early season statement by moving his team forward with 167 rushing yards and scoring two touchdowns en route to a 23-20 victory.

“I was very proud of my performance in the home game against Morton,” Terrell said. “I wanted to do all I could to get my team consistent yards and a score, and I did. Not only did we get the win, but I also got bragging rights over my cousin, who was one of the Morton linebackers.”

Terrell has been a sprinter on track since freshman year. He participates in the 100 meter relay, 400 meter relay, 4×2 and 4×1 and high jump. His personal best 40-yard dash is 4.6 seconds. Track has improved his agility, endurance, and acceleration for football.

“Both football and track benefit each other,” Terrell said. “Track works with my agility and quickness, which is key to have as a running back when your dodging tackles and speeding past opponents.”

In the offseason, Terrell is determined to improve upon his game. He works with teammates, friends and family to gain speed and power.

“I am constantly working on getting my legs faster and stronger, because as a running back your legs are a crucial part of your game. It’s important to keep your legs strong because players on the opposing team try to tackle your legs. The drills I do in training prepare me for the games when I have to make sharp cuts.”

Coaches have played Terrell at other positions in addition to running back throughout the season.

“In our offense, Reggie can also play wide receiver and special teams, as well as running back,” Weinberg said. “He is a versatile player that can play most of the positions we need him to.”

Terrell grew up in a football family. When he was young, he was inspired to play the sport by his uncle, who continues to motivate Reggie and his cousins.

“I started playing football because of my Uncle Darin,” Terrell said. “He played defensive tackle and offensive line at Chicago Collins high school and was really good. When I was younger, he talked about playing football and that influenced me to play the sport. He continues to give my cousins and I pep talks that fire us up before every game.”

As a junior, Terrell still has his senior season ahead of him, and he plans on playing football in college.

“[Terrell] has all the qualities of a good football player and leader,” Weinberg said. “He is an intelligent athlete that shows a lot of commitment to the team and to the game.”