Over the last three years, Southern Lehigh junior Sean Steckert has developed a reputation as one of the district’s most prominent athletes. Steckert is a running back for the varsity football team, a standout wrestler, and a member of the spring track and field team, receiving much acclaim from coaches and local news sources.
Steckert has proven to be an integral part of any team he is a part of, evidenced by his 2,047 rushing yards on only 278 attempts and 34 touchdowns this past football season. He also sits at a combined personal record of 13-2, with five of those wins coming from pins. Steckert has also been recognized for his success in his sophomore year on the track, coming first in the 3,200 meter relay and 400 meter run against Notre Dame High School.
The athlete is well-known not just because of his abilities but also because of his commitment to his Christian faith. A large part of his identity, Steckert makes it a habit to pray before any game, meet, or match, asking for teamwork, victory, and, above all, safety.
While Steckert appreciates being recognized online or in newspapers, he considers the most rewarding part of being a star athlete to be having the opportunity to work toward his goals.
“Just being able to obtain the goals that I set and dreamed of when I was younger is very satisfying,” said Steckert.
One of Steckert’s most significant challenges is managing his time between practices, school, and work. Because he plays a sport every season, he never gets an off-season.
“Getting back into the flow of each sport is difficult,” Steckert said. “However, being connected to so many coaches and teammates and having all these achievements in different sports makes all the early mornings and late nights worth it.”
While he has outstanding athletic abilities, Steckert continues to be humble, and has a commendable attitude. He serves as a leader and role model on and off the field. Regarding those who inspire him, Steckert looks to mimic his game after NFL running backs like Saquan Barkley and Josh Jacobs.
“[I admire] those guys who put their heads down and get the job done,” Steckert said.
It’s usually uncommon for high school athletes to play a sport every season, let alone excel in three different sports. However, as a gifted athlete, this comes naturally to Sean.
“My main priority is to get my college paid for, so with me playing multiple sports, the chance for an athletic scholarship is higher,” Steckert said. “I’m not sure what I want to play in college, so I’m keeping my options open.”