D.I.T.R: Blair Rousseau

Blair Rousseau was a standout player at the Gridiron Football Elite Camp held in Eunice, LA at St. Edmunds field. Blair is 5’11” 230lb defensive tackle for his school team, the Catholic Bears. At the camp, Blair put up some impressive stats including a 5.47 40 Yd Dash, 4.7 Shuttle, and 8’3″ Long Jump. Blair’s athletic abilities don’t limit out at just football either, Blair also achieved 4th place in the LHSAA State Wrestling tournament. Blair’s size and strength paired with his experience on the wrestling mat make him a player for coaches and scouts to keep an eye on this season.

I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to speak with Blair and find out more about his career.

When did you start playing football and why did you start playing?

“I started in kindergarten. At the time I just did it for fun but I ended up loving it so I stayed with it.”

What aspect of the game made you fall in love with the sport?

“I like hitting people but I also enjoy the competition.”

Do you play any other sports?

“I do wrestling in the 220 weight class.”

Who do you look up to as a role model?

“I look up to my brother DJ, he always has helped me with stuff. He pushes me in the weight room and also taught me good technique.”

Is there a player that you try to model your game after?

“Aaron Donald, he’s a dominant player and we are the same height which is impressive to me.”

What have you learned about yourself from playing football?

“I learned that I can push myself further than the limits that I set myself at. I also learned that you don’t have to be the biggest in order to be successful.”

What sets you apart from the other players at your position?

“I don’t give up I’m also willing to outwork them.”

What motivates you to get better every day?

“My teammate, doing my best to help the team win.”

What kind of goals do you have set for yourself this upcoming season?

“I want to be a better player, but also a better leader on the team as well as team mate.”

What is a characteristic you believe you are weaker in and what are you doing to improve?

“My pass rush is one of my weaker traits, I practice this by working my hands and feet with some one-on-one work also.”

What have you learned about teamwork from your past experiences on your teams?

“I’ve learned that the closer teams generally have the most success. The teams that are always doing team bonding and stuff like that.”

What do you see yourself accomplishing after high school?

“I would like to be playing on a college football team. If not that I look to be a chiropractor or physical therapist.”

When looking at a college, what kind of things draw you in to want to go there?

“I look to see if they have a welcoming atmosphere. I also look to be at a school where you can tell your wanted by the coaches.”

What do you think is the most important element of teamwork?

“I think accountability is one of the most important elements. Being close and having good chemistry is another element that is important.”

How do you personally prepare yourself for a big game?

“I’m usually a calm dude before games. I just try and lock in and listen to music and keep my teammates calm as well.”