This is a bit old, but I don't think we've linked to it before ...
Sun-Times spotlight: Darius Fleming SENIOR | DEFENSIVE LINEMAN | 6-3 | 235 | ST. RITA
August 24, 2007
BY TAYLOR BELL
As the No. 1 player on the state's No. 1 team, do you feel pressure? Not at all. It's not where you start, but where you finish. It just matters that we're on top in November.
What is your best memory of 2006? Seeing how happy the coaches were after we won state. It is cool to see how the coaches react after we accomplish something. I hope to see that same look this year.
What is the difference between Darius Fleming of 2006 and 2007? I'm more intelligent with the game now. I'm stronger, bigger and faster. People will see that I'm more physical. My goal is to make 15 or more sacks.
Why did you choose Notre Dame? When I visited there, I knew from the start I wanted to go there. I knew some guys like Demetrius Jones, but I felt comfortable with kids I didn't even know. And the tradition is unbelievable.
What about St. Rita's tradition? I don't know about the 1963 national championship team. The 1971 team is our role model. I see Dennis Lick all the time. And I've heard about Billy Marek. Coach talks about them, how they pushed themselves. It motivates us.
If you weren't a football player, what would you be? A professional bowler. I bowl in high school. I average 200-plus with a high game of 279 and a high series of 673. It is the most physical sport you can play without touching someone.
What is the key to repeating as state champion? We must play every team like they are ranked No. 1. We can't be big-headed. We've got to play every game like it is our last, even better than we played in the state final last year.
Which teammates impress you the most? Offensive tackle Kevin Galeher and quarterback Jason Kafka, who was a wide receiver last year. Going against them every day in practice has made me a better player. Jason will be a big key, like Peter Balsam last year.
Do you have less time for horses? I grew up around horses. Some kids like cats or dogs. I like horses. Riding or grooming horses is the most fun I have outside of football. They are an hour away in Crete. I get a kick out of taking my buddies out there.
Who is your favorite teacher? Mrs. Maureen Pangrazio, my science teacher. When she sees something is wrong, if you're having a rough day, she takes you aside and talks to you. She goes to all the sports events and makes posters for the teams.
What have you learned from coach Todd Kuska? If it wasn't for him, I wouldn't be where I am now. He inspired and motivated me. In eighth grade, I didn't know where I wanted to go to high school. He made me want to go to St. Rita. He brought me up to the varsity as a sophomore and said I had potential to do something in football.