Zaid, who has been an integral part of the Raiders this season, spoke fondly of the unwavering support from the South Range community. “They’ve always been there since day one. We’ve grown as a family,” he expressed. The senior shared the pride he feels donning the Raider jersey, acknowledging the role he plays as a hero and role model to the younger generation.

Having primarily been a baseball player, Zaid made the switch to football during his senior year. The decision was driven by his desire to have fun with friends and play alongside his younger brother, a junior. “It’s my senior year and I want to enjoy it with my friends and my brother,” he shared. He admitted that the experience of sharing the field with his brother has been both competitive and fulfilling, adding a unique dynamic to their relationship.

Outside of his high school sports, Zaid is an avid NFL fan, with a particular affinity for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Influenced by his family’s passion for the team, Zaid’s current favorite player is T.J. Watt. Reflecting on his baseball journey, Zaid revealed that he’s been playing since the age of three, favoring positions like first base and outfield.

Academically, Zaid excels in mathematics, a subject he finds comes naturally to him. Among his mentors, Coach Rach stands out for welcoming him into the football team and making him feel like part of the family, even when he joined later in the year.

When asked about how he’d spend a million dollars, Zaid humorously responded with a true fan’s dream: Steelers season tickets.

Nick Zaid’s story is a testament to the strong community ties and the supportive environment at South Range, which encourages its students to strive for excellence both on and off the field.