Local Athletes

Name: Flynn Decker

Age/Grade: 17 Senior

School: Chatham High School

Sport/Activity: Football

Position: Strong safety/ Running back

Family Members: Megan Decker, Scott Decker, Ryan Decker, Aidan Decker, Cullen Decker

How long have you participated in this sport/activity?

I have played football for almost my whole entire Life. From flag football in 3rd and 4th grade all throughout middle school and into high school.

Are you on a team?

I am on the Chatham High school Varsity team.

Have you traveled anywhere related to this sport?

The only games I’ve ever played are vs instate opponents and the only traveling I have ever done was going to nfl games with my friends as a team.

Have you met anyone famous in this sport/activity?

I have met Eli Manning because he used to live in Summit where my dad grew up so I have seen him around town. I also met Ryan Fitzpatrick when he came to cougar field on junior cougar day.

What have you learned from participating in this sport? What do you like best about the sport?

I have learned so much from playing this sport. My coaches, especially the high school coaching staff, have taught me valuable lessons both on and off the field. They have taught me how to be coachable and also to never hang my head no matter the circumstance. A winner will act like a winner no matter the outcome. That’s something coach pic taught me and that’s something I will always remember.

What is your favorite moment? 

I would say my first senior game vs Mount Olive. It was the second day of school and our first game after being doubted by many people because of the talent we lost last year. They were a great team and to go out there and win in overtime in that atmosphere was something truly incredible and a great experience.

What do you plan on doing next year?

This past summer, I committed to play at Salisbury University in college to pursue my academic and athletic career. I couldn’t be more excited and can’t wait to get down there.

One tip for someone looking to get into this sport/activity:

No matter how big, strong or fast you are, especially at a young age, never give up. I have seen so many kids  that would have ended up making great football players quit because of their size. The strength, speed and skill will come with time. You just need to trust the process and enjoy every chance you get to play this game.