In the small town of Erie, football is nestled within the hearts of many in the community. They have witnessed the rise of a quarterback, but also have seen a program grow into a championship-caliber team. As the sun sets on a historic career, the Erie quarterback will bid farewell.
From the time that he had started playing youth football, it was evident that the name Blake Barnett would become a name echoing throughout the Erie community. It was evident that Barnett had an innate talent for the game of football.
Barnett displayed that talent to the Erie community for 4 chaotic years. The anticipation that Blake had brought to Erie High as a freshman during a year of chaos and a reality change altered the program’s expectations and hopes for a state championship.
Before any of the hopes of winning a state title, Barnett had to instill commitment and leadership into his teammates and coaches. The work ethic that he brought to the team is unmatched, Blakes’s commitment to his team was seen by his coaches.. “A lot of those guys looked up to him, not all due to his talent but by bringing guys along throughout the summer and doesn’t miss practice and doesn’t miss workouts,”Giger stated.
Barnett showed his passion for the game by playing both sides of the ball while giving 100% effort.“In the state championship game when he got hurt, he battled his way back out there even when he wasn’t one hundred percent, but he showed his toughness,” Giger mentioned. Barnett’s dynamic ability to intercept a ball and then going to throw a touchdown showed his ability to work and never give up for his home team.
New defense coordinator Jordan Graff coached Blake this year from the defense side of the ball which was a huge part of Erie’s success to surge through the playoffs this year. The energy and intensity Graff and Blake brought to each game helped spark hope in the Erie crowd. “One of the reasons we were successful this season was because he played through injuries, he kept the team playing at a high level with his energy and enthusiasm.” Graff described.
As Blake transitions into collegiate football the foundations he built in Erie will forever be sustained. Making Erie fans want to follow his progress and pathway throughout his college career knowing he represents the town of Erie.
The pinnacle of his career and the work ethic he instilled within the program will remain the standard for many football players to come. Remembering the loud stadium cheers and embracing the moment he played in when on the Erie football team.
Setting records day in and day out that no one will touch for many years to come will be talked about for many years to come. Every completion, every touchdown, became a celebration of shared history and enduring loyalty to the town of Erie.
