Boyd Blackmon, FDA Eagle football statistician, is 15 going on 16 (in just a couple of weeks) and can’t wait to get his driver’s license. Blackmon, a student at Fort Dale Academy, is the son of Ann, a teacher at the school, and Paul, who works for Centurylink. He’s also big brother to Jackson, 10. We sat down for a Q & A with this football-loving fellow this week.

Q: Have you always attended school at Fort Dale?

A: Yes, ma’am, ever since I was really little, even before I can remember.

Q: How did you end up as the stats keeper for the football team?

A: Well, all my classmates were on the team, and I decided to go to the coach (Speed Sampley) and ask if there was something I could do with the team. So that is the job he gave me.

Q: I hear you do a lot more than just keep the stats, however.

A: Yes, ma’am, I try to keep them pumped up, get them all excited before the game, screaming and yelling, you know.

Q: Winning the championship had to be exciting, right?

A: Oh, yes, very exciting. The whole season was great, being a part of it all.

Q: What’s been the best part of serving in the position on the team?

A: Just getting to know all the coaches, to hang out with the coaches and the players. (pauses and smiles broadly) And getting the championship ring. That is very enjoyable.

Q: Are you going to get to ride on the float with the team in the Christmas parade next week?

A: Well, I don’t know about that. My youth band is performing that night and my church (Southside Baptist) has a float, so I reckon I will be riding on that one.

Q: Tell me more about this youth band and how you got involved in it.

A: It’s called Zone 4:12, after Timothy 4:12. My guitar teacher Roness Fail started it. T.J. Bender, who used to play lead guitar, got a job, so I just randomly started playing some of the lead parts. Hayden Duke, who’s the leader of the group, ended up asking me to take over that spot.

Q: Have you always attended Southside?

A: Yes, ma’am. Ever since nine months before I was born.

Q: Who are your favorite artists or groups to listen to?

A: Classic rock. Guns n’ Roses, AC/DC. In Christian groups, I like artists like Mercy Me and Casting Crowns.

Q: Do you have other hobbies or interests?

A: I do try to go hunting every weekend when I can, but football and the band take up most of my time. I also do yard work for different people, mostly the coaches and family members. Actually, I am looking for a full-time job so I don’t have to mess up my sinuses cutting grass. So if there are any restaurant managers out there looking for someone, I am willing, even if it’s just moving boxes or whatever.

Q: Favorite TV shows?

A: Watching football on TV, when I do get to slow down and actually watch TV.

Q: As a football fan, Alabama or Auburn?

A: Roll Tide!

Q: Future plans beyond high school?

A: I’m not sure yet, but I do want to start by attending LBW for a few years before going off to some big college. And I would like to play in their ensemble. There are a lot of people who play better than me around town, but I am going to try out for it, I guess. I definitely want to continue playing music.

Q: Any final thoughts?

A: Yes. Brady Clark said to mention him. (pauses and smiles) Actually, for all the guys on the team, I want to give them a shout-out. I love you guys!

Angie Long, who is now an official member of the Boyd Blackmon Fan Club, conducted this interview.