Tag Archive for: Troy Combs

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF TROY

CANFIELD, OH- In a captivating edition of the YSN Player Profile podcast, Raider fans were treated to an insightful interview with South Range senior, Troy Combs. Celebrated as Raider of the Week, Combs spoke candidly about his journey, aspirations, and the profound impact football and the community have had on his life.

DJ Yokley, the podcast host, began by delving into what it meant for Combs to be chosen as Raider of the Week. Combs humbly shared that he was notified by a teammate and expressed deep gratitude for the recognition, believing it reflected his embodiment of the Raiders’ core values of selflessness, honesty, and respect.

The in-depth conversation revealed Combs’ deep-seated pride in donning the number 18 jersey, a tribute to both his brother and previous standout players. Combs admitted his decision was fueled partially by pragmatic reasons—discomfort with his previous number—but mostly by a desire to honor the legacy of those who he revered, including the Krumbachers.

Highlighting his commitment, Combs discussed his meticulous habit of reviewing game film, praising his offensive line for their support. This dedication to improvement has made him a formidable presence on the field. In a lighter moment, he shared an ongoing joke with teammate Lally about his honorary claim to being part of the offensive line.

Off the field, Combs is a man of many tastes—his eclectic music playlist ranges from Kanye West to Elvis Presley, with “If I Can Dream” being his Friday night anthem before games. The interview also touched on Combs’ future endeavors; while he once considered teaching, he now aspires to a career in computer engineering, inspired by his father’s work ethic and technical prowess.

When asked about the best advice he’s received, Combs cited a Vince Lombardi quote: “It’s not whether you get knocked down; it’s whether you get back up.” This philosophy intertwines with his admiration for the Rocky films, highlighting resilience as essential both in sports and life.

Looking ahead, Combs intends to create a lasting legacy defined by his work ethic and personal growth. With hopes of securing another state champion title, Troy Combs stands as a testament to South Range’s spirit and tenacity, ready to face his next chapter with the same vigor he’s shown on the gridiron.

As his final high school football season unfolds, Raider Nation will undoubtedly cherish and celebrate the contributions of number 18, an embodiment of the pride and tradition of South Range.

PRESENTED BY

THE LION

CANFIELD, OH- The South Range Raiders have found themselves a defensive gem in junior standout Troy Combs. Known for his hard-hitting tackles and game-changing interceptions, Combs is quickly gaining attention as a generational talent in the football community.

Combs, hailing from a family that bleeds Raider pride, has followed in the footsteps of his older brother Matthias, a notable wide receiver who left a lasting impression on the team. In a recent interview at Giangelo’s in Boardman, Combs expressed gratitude for his brother’s influence and praised his character both on and off the field.

Reflecting on his growth throughout the season, Combs admitted that early on, he struggled with patience and would often get juked out or penalized for holding. However, under the guidance of coach Rocks, Combs has evolved into a more composed and patient player, allowing him to make impactful plays.

What sets Combs apart is his ability to not only deliver bone-crushing hits but also showcase his speed and agility when intercepting passes. When asked to choose between laying a hit or making an interception, Combs unhesitatingly expressed his love for setting the tone with a big hit, believing it sends a powerful message to the opposing team.

Looking ahead to the playoffs, Combs emphasized the importance of continuous improvement and building a stronger bond with his teammates. He acknowledged the challenge posed by their upcoming fearless opponents and expressed excitement for the opportunity to showcase his skills against a team that throws the ball frequently.

Combs credits the close-knit bond among the South Range Raiders as a catalyst for their success. Their unique practice methods, such as “squeezing and spilling,” instill trust and belief in each other, making them a formidable force on the field.

Beyond football, Combs has his sights set on a future in architecture or graphic design, citing his love for building Legos as the inspiration behind his interest. With his dedication and talent on the gridiron, Combs undoubtedly has a bright future ahead of him, with football being a potential opportunity for success.

As the South Range Raiders continue their journey in the playoffs, Troy Combs remains focused on making a lasting impact on the team while constantly striving for personal growth. With his exceptional defensive skills and unwavering dedication, Combs is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with in high school football.

 

PRESENTED BY