Being a captain means more than just the title. It means setting an example for your teammates and bringing energy to the field. For senior captain Ali Gega, that is exactly what he plans to do this season. Gega believes one of the biggest ways he helps his team is through his attitude and effort. 

“I impact my team in a positive way because I bring energy and intensity to practice and games,” Gega said. This season, the team will have to adjust after losing a lot of important players to graduation. He believes the team’s physicality of older and younger varsity players will be key.

“The plan for this year to be successful is to play very physical off the ball,” Gega said.  He also believes the team has plenty of younger talent playing on varsity.

Gega has already made some great memories during his football career. One of his biggest moments came when Woodland defeated Ansonia for the first time in 20 years, with a score of 28-7. In the game he had three tackles. Another memorable moment happened during his freshman year when he recorded his first tackle for loss against Watertown. 

Gega looks up to NFL player Aaron Donald. Donald is a Defensive tackle just like Gega. He admires Donald’s confidence and mindset, especially the way he believes he is the best player on the field at all times.

Off the field, Gega has a simple routine to get ready for game day. Before games, he goes to Chipotle and orders the same thing every time: a Chipotle bowl with white rice, black beans, fajita, vegetables, pico, corn salsa, sour cream, lettuce, and cheese, and a tortilla on the side.  During pre-game warm up Gega is always listening to his favorite artist NBA YoungBoy. 

As captain, Gega hopes to bring the same confidence and intensity to his team. With new players stepping into bigger roles this season, his leadership could be an important part of the team’s success.