Mention the name “Ray Niro” in the Barrington area, or to any coach scouting the Broncos, and football comes to mind.
Niro, in his first year as the starting quarterback, led the Broncos to the second round of the Class 8A playoffs and finished 9-2. He was named all-Mid-Suburban League as well as All-Area by Pioneer Press.
Niro injured his ankle in the state playoffs — he exited early in the second-round loss to Maine South — and missed the first half of the basketball season as a result. But after Niro returned to full health, his speed became apparent once more.
Niro runs track in addition to playing football and basketball. Although he admitted his skills on the basketball court aren’t up to his play in the other two sports, he’s still a factor on the floor. It’s all about that speed.
“He’s tough. He’s a competitor. The kid gives us great energy,” Barrington coach Bryan Tucker said. “He’s a really talented athlete. But here’s what I would say: His character far exceeds any accomplishments.”
More Top Picks Best Money Clips For Men
Niro contributed two points, two steals, an assist and a couple of hard fouls off the bench in Barrington’s 62-30 loss to Conant on Friday. Niro laughed when asked about the fouls, saying that coming from football he feels he’s more aggressive. At one point, he dove for a ball at midcourt and landed next to the scorer’s table, with Tucker standing and applauding his effort.
“It’s mostly on defense that I can contribute,” Niro said. “Defense is all effort. I don’t really need any talent for defense. Give it 100 percent. Never give up on a play.
“It took about five weeks to come back from the high ankle sprain. It’s great to be back.”
Niro’s teammates certainly appreciate what he brings to the basketball court.
“He was always a leader, football and basketball, the hardest working guy,” junior forward and wide receiver Jake Parsons said. “He brings us energy, the crowd energy.”
Tucker said that even when Niro was out injured, he was still one of the team’s vocal leaders, keeping the Broncos (13-7, 2-5 MSL West) upbeat and positive. He added that Niro’s minutes will continue to grow.
Niro said he connected football with basketball because his favorite football player, the great Joe Montana, also played basketball.
Once the basketball season is over, Niro said he can’t wait to get back on the football field this summer and work toward the season-opening kickoff.
“Definitely, I would like to play at the collegiate level, but we’ll see what happens,” Niro said. “I’m just going to do my best next year.”
Mark Perlman is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.
Twitter @Pioneer_Press