(Blake Hepburn says “there is nothing like playing with a bunch of your friends, in front of friends and loved ones.) (Photo: €Nicole Gray)

Blake HepburnAge: 18

Hometown: West Linn

Grade/School: Senior/West Linn High School

Sport: Boys Soccer

Position: Center Defender

Team Name: West Linn Lions

Coach: Greg “What’s Next?” Bean

Highlights of season: “During my whole soccer career I have had ankle issues and finally my tendons got to a point where it required surgery to correct these issues and prevent arthritis. After a successful surgery, I was honestly debating if it was a good idea to play soccer again. I continued to push through physical therapy and personal problems until one day I decided that because it was my senior year, I should give it a shot. I am extremely glad I did because this whole season has been a ‘highlight’ in my mind. The work we all put into this team has actually paid off, and we have made a lasting impact on this program and become a close-knit group on top of that.”

How he got started: “I started playing club soccer for Willamette United back in fourth grade. I rarely got any playing time my first couple of years, but for some reason I did not care one bit and continued to be involved.”

Coach’s advice: “Greg ‘Body Count’ Bean continues to challenge us and has planted a strong idea in our heads with his favorite catchphrase ‘Why not you?'”

Favorite part of sport: “Playing in front of our home crowd. There is nothing like playing with a bunch of your friends, in front of friends and loved ones.”

Favorite meal the night before the big event: “I honestly have donuts and candy the night before our games. But every home game we all get together and eat lunch as a team, normally getting Oh Teriyaki.”

Off-season? “I do not think I will be participating in any other sports this year, but I plan to be highly involved in our Hiking Club.”

Rules to live by: “Always leave something in better condition than when you found it and savor everything you can.”

Memorable advice: “Better to write for yourself and have no public, than to write for the public and have no self.” -Cyril Connolly

Other Hobbies: “I am in love with the outdoors. This winter I plan to indulge in as much camping, hiking and snowboarding as I can. I am also a photographer and graphic designer for my school’s newspaper.”

On his iPod: “Everything from Marvin Gaye to George Gershwin.”

Favorite books: “Perks of Being a Wallflower and The General in His Labyrinth.”

The one thing someone may not know about him: “I really enjoy reading and I also listen to a lot of classical music.”

What’s next? I” am continuing my college search and at the moment I plan to follow my father’s footsteps and major in Political Science and possibly attend Law school.”