Adversity a builder for Lakota's Streacker

Lakota senior Lucas Streacker experienced many struggles and challenges as an athlete.

That’s exactly why he’ll be happy to remember where he came from as he continues his football career at Mount Union.

“I chose Mount Union for the feel of the school,” he said. “The coaching staff has helped me in every way imaginable. They remind me of Coach (Mike) Lento, with the intensity and enthusiasm. I’m excited to be part of a legacy in college football. It’s always been a goal.”

Sports helped Streacker mature.

“They helped me utilize my talents on the field and kept me on the ball in the classroom,” he said. “They’ve helped me grow into the young man I am today.”

Even Streacker acknowledges his menagerie of high school positions was odd.

“I’ve always been a wide receiver and kicker,” he said. “I’ve played D-end and a little bit of corner in my earlier years. I liked the grind of it. The work ethic. The drive to compete for a spot.”

Streacker had no trouble earning a spot, but it grew taxing doing so for a new coach every year.

“(Not) having a coach or system to build off,” he said.

Streacker anticipates playing receiver and possibly providing back-up at kicker in college.

Streacker takes pride in Lakota’s six-win season. He endured nine straight losses prior.

“The best memory at Lakota was just my senior year,” he said. “We’d gone through so much adversity, from a new coach and system, to getting guys in the weight room, to Jordan White breaking his leg in Week 2, to going on the first four-game win streak in over 10 years.”

Most of all, Streacker appreciates his opportunities in Kansas.

“I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else,” he said. “It makes me proud. The fan base and support. We have common ground where we can learn and grow as one big community. Talk about amazing people.

“From the admissions office to the secretaries to the boosters to the coaching staffs. They’re all top-rate. Once a Raider, always a Raider.”

mhorn@gannett.com

419-307-4892

Twitter: @MatthewHornNH

Instagram: @matthewchorn