Wright City sophomore Duan McRoberts is ready for another season on the football field after a successful freshman campaign in multiple sports. 

McRoberts contributed on the baseball and football fields and basketball court as a freshman last season. He especially shined both on the football field and baseball diamond last season. On the diamond, McRoberts was the team’s leadoff hitter and a starting outfielder for most of the season. He led the Wildcat football team in receiving yards and was a starting receiver and safety as a freshman last season. He also earned all-conference honors. 

“He’s a very talented player,” Wright City football coach Tyler Rickard said. “He’s also a very knowledgeable player too. Just very much understands the game.”

McRoberts and the Wright City football team will begin their season Aug. 26. 

How long have you lived in Wright City? 

I’ve always went to Wright City school ever since kindergarten. Always lived in the area. 

What sports do you play at Wright City? 

Football, baseball and basketball. 

Do you like playing different sports? 

I’ve always loved all sports. I’ve played baseball since I was in first grade. I started football in middle school and basketball in sixth grade. I love all sports. 

What were the keys to your success last season, particularly on the football field and baseball diamond? 

I guess it was a little frightening at first. You feel like you have to show yourself at first and then gaining your respect. Really, it was all natural. I just gave it my all. 

Do you feel more comfortable on the football field this year than you did last season? 

Definitely. Just after what I did last year, it just gives you a boost of confidence. You’re not afraid to step on there. You don’t have that fear in the back of your mind. You just know go out there. Play your best. 

Does it help having the same coaching staff for the second year in a row? 

Yeah definitely. I’m way more comfortable with the coaching staff. Everything just feels good. 

Was there an adjustment last spring when you moved from the bottom of the baseball order to the leadoff spot? 

Last year, the first game they put me in the leadoff spot and that game I really showed out. They were just like I guess we got to keep you there. At first, I was just going to be a predominant baserunner for the team and then I just started showing myself out and started performing well in games so I just earned that spot I guess. 

Do you think the Wildcat football team will take the next step this season? 

Definitely. Our leadership we feel like is a lot better. We even started a leadership council. We talk more about it. Just have more team chemistry. Be comfortable with everybody on the team. 

Do you think your experience in all three sports helps with the other sports? 

Definitely, of course. You just get to see the different perspectives from different coaches. You just learn a lot. 

Are there challenges to playing two ways in football (offense and defense)?

A little bit. You’re going to be tired at times but you just have to fight through it and give it your all. 

What is your favorite food? 

I love tacos. I love everytime I hear we’re having tacos for dinner. And steak of course.

What is your favorite subject in school? 

Math. I’ve always loved math. I don’t know why. It just comes natural. Always found it enjoyable. Everybody thinks I’m weird for it. 

What is your ideal travel destination? 

I’ve always wanted to go to the Bahamas and Hawaii.