Q&A with Brad Foster: Overcoming Challenges, Growing as a Leader, and Embracing the Process

In an inspiring conversation with Brad Foster, a talented student-athlete at Glen Ridge High School, we explored his experiences in both football and lacrosse, his growth as a leader, and the support system that has helped him excel. Here's a breakdown of our interview:

Q: Thanks for joining us, Brad. You've had a really impressive career in both lacrosse and football. What other sports or activities did you participate in growing up, and how have they shaped you as an athlete?

Brad: Growing up, I was really active in sports. My dad was the head of the Glen Ridge Athletic Association (GRAA), so he made sure I played just about everything—wrestling, baseball, football with the Red Dogs, lacrosse, you name it. Playing all these sports really built my competitiveness. I think that was key in shaping me into who I am today. Without that experience and that drive, I wouldn’t have been able to take on roles like quarterback or excel in lacrosse the way I have.

Q: Competitiveness clearly plays a big role in your approach to sports. How do you stay motivated and focused on working hard, especially when the pressure is high?

Brad: Yeah, it’s definitely all about competing. I love the challenge and the grind. Whether it’s a big game or just practice, I try to stay focused on improving and pushing myself. It's about having that mindset that no matter what, you're going to give it your all. For me, that motivation has always been a part of who I am.

Q: Speaking of pressure, you took on the role of quarterback for the football team this year. How did you handle stepping up in such a big way, and did you experience any nerves when the role was first presented to you?

Brad: When they asked me to step up, I honestly didn’t let the nerves get to me too much. I knew it was my senior year, and I had nothing to lose. I was just going to enjoy it and give it my best shot. Having my senior teammates around me helped a lot. We were all in it together, so that made it easier to stay calm. Even if things didn’t go perfectly, we had fun with it, and that made it all worthwhile.

Q: It sounds like having fun is really important to you. In moments when things aren’t going as planned, like after a tough loss, how do you keep the energy and positivity up?

Brad: Honestly, it’s all about the love for the game. I've been playing since I was a kid, so I know how to shake off the nerves and the pressure. After a tough loss, it’s important to get right back into the film room and figure out what we can improve on. But it’s also about remembering that it’s just a game, and you have to have fun. At the end of the day, we’re all there to enjoy it and grow from it, so I always try to keep the team upbeat and focused on the next challenge.

Q: Support is key to overcoming challenges. Can you tell us about your support system, both on and off the field? Who are the people who have been there for you?

Brad: I’ve been really lucky with the support I’ve had. My coaches, especially Coach Manzo, Coach Vena, Coach M, and the rest of the team have been huge for me. They've always had my back, helped me grow as a player, and pushed me to be better. But I’d say the most important support has been from my family. My mom and dad were at every game, cheering me on. And then having my brother on the team this year was a big deal for me. It was great to have family there, and being able to lift him up when he needed it, especially as a freshman, was something special. We’ve always been close, and having him there made me feel even more supported.

Q: That’s awesome. You mentioned lifting your brother up when he faced challenges. What was that experience like, and how did you help him adjust to the pressures of being a freshman?

Brad: It was really important to me that he felt supported. I know how tough it can be as a freshman, especially when you're not playing as much, and you’re trying to live up to your older sibling’s expectations. I just kept reminding him that he’s got what it takes, that the coaches and everyone believed in him. It's tough for anyone to find their footing, but being there for him helped me, too. I think just making sure he knew that we were a team, no matter what, helped him get through those moments.

Q: You’ve had a standout season, earning numerous awards and recognition from coaches. What’s your secret to staying confident and continuing to perform at a high level, especially when stepping into new roles like quarterback?

Brad: A lot of it comes from my experience. I’ve been playing football my whole life, and stepping into the quarterback role felt natural. I knew it was my senior year, so I knew I had to step up. The key is to trust the process. I’m always trying to improve and learn from every game. After losses, I’d dive back into the film room, focus on what we can do better, and remind myself that it’s all part of the journey. The team always stayed positive, and that really helped me stay focused and keep pushing forward.

Q: As you reflect on your journey, what advice would you give to your younger self or to younger athletes trying to find their way?

Brad: If I could go back, I’d tell myself to trust the process more and not be so hard on myself. When I was younger, I struggled with confidence, especially with my size. I wasn’t the biggest kid out there, and that definitely made me question myself at times. But looking back, I wish I could’ve told myself to just keep going. Size doesn’t define your potential. I learned that it’s all about work ethic, heart, and believing in yourself. So, for anyone younger out there, don’t let doubts hold you back. You’ve got what it takes to be great.

Q: That’s great advice. Brad, thank you so much for sharing your story with us. You’ve clearly learned a lot along the way, and your journey is truly inspiring. I’m looking forward to seeing all that you accomplish this year in lacrosse as well.

Brad: Thanks for having me. It’s been great to talk about all this, and I’m definitely excited for lacrosse season! Appreciate all the support.

Brad Foster’s journey is a testament to hard work, dedication, and the power of a strong support system. His advice to trust the process and stay true to oneself is something every young athlete should take to heart. Best of luck to Brad as he continues to lead and inspire both on the field and beyond!