Written by Sports Information Student Assistant Christina Capadona
BEREA, OHIO -- Baldwin-Wallace College senior running back and team captain Gerald Hazzard, North Olmsted High School graduate, hopes to be hazzardous to Yellow Jacket opponents in 2002.
Stepping into the fullback position at B-W came naturally to Hazzard. At North Olmsted H.S., he played both offense at defense as the FB on offense and as a linebacker on defense.
"The thing I like most about the fullback position is the physical contact and the opportunity to attack somebody or move them out of my way," said Hazzard. It’s a one-on-one physical battle. I can control my own destiny. It is also about strength and desire. I also know that I will win most of those battles."
The three-year letterman has progressed through the Yellow Jacket system for four years and is hoping to make his mark as both a potent offensive weapon and team leader this fall.
In his first three years on the varsity, Hazzard served as a backup fullback. Last year he split time with graduated senior Brad Pulfer at FB. This year, Hazzard, who will serve as a team tri-captain along with fellow seniors Kyle Obendorf (Wadsworth) and Matt Kish (Brook Park/ Midpark), will battle for the starting spot at FB and is expected to be an outstanding team leader.
"Jerry is an outstanding young man who works very hard and has always led by example," said first-year Head Coach John Snell. "He is one of thev most dedicated, unselfish and loyal players that I have ever been associated with.
"This year, Jerry will battle to be our fullback and is a team captain," said Snell. "The players on our team respect him as one of the hardest workers and as a leader. He is a fine role model."
Hazzard has definite goals as a captain.
"I will be a leader for the team and keep pushing everybody to reach our goals," said Hazzard. The goals include winning the Ohio Athletic Conference title and Division III National Championship. We realize that these are extremely lofty goals, but we need to set them as high as possible. We also realize that we play in the best Division III conference in the country. If we can win the OAC title, we will have a great shot at winning it all in the playoffs.
"In order to be great team, you have to be a family," continued Hazzard. We are all in it together and we have to have the trust and communication between all coaches and players to succeed. In order to be a good football player, you have to have your heart into it. Football is the toughest game to play and it’s heart that pushes you through the hard times."
During his three seasons on the varsity, Hazzard developed a reputation as a triple-threat -- a strong blocker, soid ball carrier and able receiver.
As a blocker, Hazzard helped to lead the way for B-W to run for more than 5,400 yards the past three years. As a runner, Hazzard carried the ball 11 times for 63 yards for a 5.7-yard average. Also as impressive is the fact that Hazzard never lost a yard rushing. As a receiver, he caught 10 passes for 98 yards and three touchdowns.
Hazzard, a senior history and education major who would like to teach history and coach football, uses his strength and agility to ignite the Yellow Jacket offense. At 5’11 and 230 pounds, Hazzard "maxed out" at 405 pounds in the bench press and 1,500 pounds in the leg press during offseason training. Hazzard also runs whenever he can to improve quickness. His dedication to the sport is obvious.
"No matter how good you think you are, you can always get better," said Hazzard. "I’m always trying to improve myself. I also know that by being a captain that I have to be a good role model and set a good example for the younger players."
Look out, opponents, Hazzard can be hazardous to your health!
275 Eastland Rd.