Mr. Cunningham: PHMG's #1 Ranked Linebacker for Spring 2024

Wayne Cunningham has quickly become a household name in Pinellas County football. The sophomore linebacker from Pinellas Park has established himself as a force to be reckoned with on the field, earning the title of the #1 player at his position in the region. Standing tall at 6'2" and weighing 225 pounds, Cunningham's physical presence is as commanding as his play, making him a cornerstone of the Pinellas Park defense.

Over the past two seasons, Cunningham has amassed an impressive career total of 188 tackles, showcasing his relentless pursuit and impeccable tackling ability. His performance has not only garnered the attention of his coaches and teammates but also made him a standout prospect for college recruiters.

Last night, Cunningham further solidified his reputation by dominating at middle linebacker in the jamboree, where Pinellas Park faced off against state runner-ups Clearwater Central Catholic and the Countryside Cougars. His exceptional play during the game did not go unnoticed, as he was re-offered a football scholarship from Troy University shortly after the game.

Cunningham's journey to becoming a defensive staple began with his dedication to the sport from a young age. His natural talent, combined with a rigorous training regimen, has propelled him to the top of his game. Coaches and peers alike speak highly of his work ethic and leadership qualities, noting that his presence on the field lifts the entire team's performance.

Off the field, Cunningham is known for his humility and focus. Despite his early success, he remains grounded and is always looking for ways to improve his game. This drive for excellence is evident in his approach to training and his willingness to put in the extra work necessary to stay ahead of the competition.

We had the opportunity to sit down with Wayne Cunningham to discuss his journey and future aspirations.

**Q: Wayne, you've had an impressive career so far with 188 tackles. What has been the key to your success on the field?**

**A:** I think the key to my success has been a combination of hard work, great coaching, and support from my teammates. I always strive to give my best in every practice and game, and I'm constantly looking for ways to improve my technique and understanding of the game.

**Q: At 6'2" and 225 pounds, you have a commanding presence. How do you leverage your physical attributes to dominate your position as a linebacker?**

**A:** My size definitely helps, but it's more about how you use it. I focus on my agility and speed to make sure I can react quickly to plays. Strength training is also a big part of my routine to ensure I can tackle effectively and hold my ground against bigger opponents.

**Q: As a sophomore, you've already become a staple of the Pinellas Park defense. How do you handle the pressure and responsibility that comes with being a key player on the team?**

**A:** It can be a lot of pressure, but I try to stay focused on what I can control. My coaches and teammates are always there to support me, which makes a big difference. I take it one game at a time and try to lead by example both on and off the field.

**Q: What are some of the biggest challenges you've faced during your football career, and how have you overcome them?**

**A:** One of the biggest challenges has been balancing schoolwork with football. It's tough to manage both, but time management and staying organized have helped a lot. Another challenge is staying mentally tough through injuries and tough losses, but having a strong support system helps me push through.

**Q: Looking ahead, what are your personal goals for the next season, and how do you plan to continue improving your game?**

**A:** My main goal is to help my team win as many games as possible and hopefully make it to the playoffs. Personally, I want to improve my tackling technique and increase my speed. I'll continue working hard in the gym and on the field, and I'm also planning to attend some camps this summer to learn from other top players and coaches.

Wayne Cunningham's future looks bright as he continues to develop his skills and contribute to his team's success. With his talent, determination, and leadership, he is poised to make an even bigger impact in the seasons to come.