Following a 1-1 start to the season, Katy has proceeded to strike back in the loaded District 19-6A throughout this Fall, currently maintaining a record of 6-1, with the top spot (5-0) among their counterparts.
The Tigers are a well-established and storied franchise, and as is the case for most programs, it all begins with the man behind-center.
Junior QB Gunner Nelson has flourished in his debut as Katy’s signal-caller, and he is well aware of the weight that comes with the task.
“It’s a good feeling to have, to be one of the leaders on this team from the quarterback position,” he said. “It’s my first time as a starter, so there’s a lot of responsibility that comes with it, especially for this team.”
“Growing up, all my coaches were about discipline, hard work, and effort. Having that at a young age made it easier for me, coming into a program like Katy. That experience has helped me to understand what they’re telling me to do in order to execute.”
Nelson has stepped into the role confidently, as he is about to surpass 1,000 passing yards on the season, with 13 touchdowns to his name, while having only thrown two picks thus far.
Despite the success he has seen, the Katy junior remains humble.
“I’d say my strength comes from my teammates,” said Nelson. “The line helps me to stay calm in the pocket, and having good receivers like I do – Izzy (Israel Olotu-Judah), Oliver (Ginn), and Cade (McCall) – along with tight ends that can make plays, makes it so much easier for me as the QB.”
With only a few weeks remaining in the regular season, and three more district opponents to face – Cinco Ranch, Seven Lakes, and Katy Taylor – the Tigers have their eyes set on a third-consecutive district championship.
But, it comes as no surprise that Nelson and co. want more.
“We plan to go all the way this year,” Nelson said. “Something that’s going to help us get there is our emphasis on discipline, executing on both sides of the ball, and doing the little things right. We’ve made a lot of progress this year, so if we can maintain that mindset, I know we’re capable of achieving something greater.”