It’s easy to get overwhelmed with Mundelein senior quarterback Colten Fisher’s gaudy numbers, with his 736 yards rushing and eight TDs to go along with 452 yards passing and seven scores.
But listening to his teammates talk after a 55-6 victory over North Chicago (1-2) in Mundelein on Friday, Sept. 11, it’s Fisher’s leadership abilities that stand out at Mundelein (3-0).
“He motivates all of the linemen,” senior center Ernie Beltran said. “Colten is an inspiration to us. He takes control and makes sure that everyone is committed.”
That notion is seconded by senior linebacker Antoine Hicks, who caught three Fisher touchdown passes (28, 12 and 8 yards) against North Chicago.
“He’s a great quarterback,” Hicks said. “He’s a great leader. Whenever we get in a slump, he always pulls us out of it and motivates us. Even with a bad play, he keeps us focused on the next play.”
There weren’t too many bad plays against the Warhawks, especially for Fisher, who was 9-for-14 for 152 yards and the three scoring passes while rushing for 145 yards on 14 carries. That was in just over one half of play before he was replaced. He can run up the middle, using his toughness, or fly outside with his speed.
“He’s got some talent,” Mundelein coach Larry Calhoun said. “I like to think he’s going to get some looks at the next level to play. He’s a good enough player to do that. I couldn’t go handpick a better one.”
This season has been a different one for Fisher, who started at quarterback last season with the Mustangs going 0-9.
“It’s amazing,” Fisher said. “I can’t put it into words. It’s a great feeling.”
Fisher is quick to concentrate his focus on leading his team.
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“I’m more comfortable this year taking on a leadership role. I tell my teammates to always look ahead and don’t let up,” Fisher said. “I’m glad that my teammates feel that I help them out. I’m just trying to go the best I can for them.”
When he was on the sidelines in the second half Friday, Fisher was helping with the signals and encouraging back-up quarterback Reid Rubio, who threw a touchdown pass.
“He’s a sparkplug. Kind of a natural leader,” Calhoun said.
“I just try to keep it all upbeat. Good play, bad play I have the same smile on my face,” Fisher said. “No matter what’s going on, I’m always going to be there for them. It’s great to see everyone’s hard work paying off.”
Mark Perlman is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.
Twitter: @markdavidperlma