Vinita High School’s football program leans on leadership and resilience, and quarterback/safety Carson Osburn has embraced both roles as he prepares for the upcoming season with the Hornets.
“What I love most about my team at Vinita is their drive, and determination to always improve themselves.” That collective mindset has carried through spring ball and into summer workouts, where Osburn said the Hornets have been tested physically and mentally. “Looking back at spring ball I thought we lacked in a few areas but those spots are and were very fixable, summer workouts have been quite intense to say the least, head coach, Coach Tanner has been keeping it very difficult but I know that it will all work out in our favor soon.”
Osburn lines up at quarterback and safety, but it is under center where he feels the greatest responsibility and reward. “My positions are quarterback and safety. I enjoy playing quarterback the most because of the amount of accountability that is held onto me between making a quick decision or turning a bad play into a gain, I also enjoy seeing my teammates succeed knowing that the play started with me.” His approach is built on preparation, especially on the defensive side, where he prides himself on his ability to diagnose plays before the snap. “Something I believe I’m able to do well is my pre snap defensive reads something I believe I need to work on is my long ball.”
That drive to improve traces back to his biggest influence at home. “Someone that inspires me is my father, he constantly pushes to not only be a better athlete but a better person, something he once told me that I always think about is the quote ‘if you’re going to do it right, do it right the first time’ this quote helps me understand the importance of self-drive and not settling for alright.”
Osburn said last season taught him and his teammates how to respond when adversity hits on Friday nights. “Last year I learned that we need to keep our heads up no matter the circumstances and to not get down on our self if something doesn’t go our way.” Beyond football, he is already thinking ahead to life after graduation. “After I graduate, I would like to pursue any sort of electrical work or obtain my real estate license.”
