The Athlete of the Week is Crookston Pirate Football player, Joe Doda, a 5’6 163-pound senior fullback and linebacker.
Joe is coming off two outstanding weeks of defensive play after missing two weeks because of an injury. He has led the team in defensive points over the last two games, all with a cast on his hand. Last week, Joe was in on 13 tackles including a forced fumble and a tackle for a loss. Even though Joe missed two games after surgery on his thumb, he is still fifth on the team in defensive points with 75. “Joe is a great kid that works very hard at everything he does. He makes players around him better,” said Pirate Football coach Scott Butt. “Joe can play many different positions and his versatility is a great thing to have on a team.”
Before the injury and surgery on his thumb, Joe had 12 carries for 53 yards and one touchdown. He also had three receptions for 32 yards.
This was Joe’s fourth year of playing varsity and he has been on the District Football All-Academic team and Section 8AA All-Academic team.
Joe is a three-sport athlete and in a few weeks, he will begin hockey practice. Joe will be in his fourth year of playing varsity hockey and last year he scored 12 goals and added 6 assists with one power-play goal while playing all 25 games.
He plays baseball in the spring where he plays shortstop, second base and pitches for the Pirates in his third year of playing varsity.
Joe is also an honor roll student.
First started playing football – Ever since I can remember – about third grade
Strongest part of your game – I can read the offense well
Part of your game that needs work – Sometimes I get too aggressive and have to get back into coverage.
Toughest football player you’ve ever faced – Noodle (Quinn Westlake)
Favorite football field – Crookston (I love the atmosphere)
Biggest thrill in your athletic career so far– Beating East Grand Forks in overtime in hockey last year
Do you have a pre-game ritual – I screw around with Noodle (Quinn Westlake) and try to keep the mood light.
Favorite sport – Hockey
Favorite sports team – Minnesota Vikings and Minnesota Twins
Favorite athlete – Adrian Peterson
Last movie you’ve seen – Joker
Favorite TV program – That 70’s Show or Trailer Park Boys
Favorite food – Lasagna
What music are you listening to – Willie Nelson and Old Dominion
Something about you that people don’t know – I like to play Fortnite with my brother Jacob
You are stranded on a deserted island and you can have ANY three people with you – My Grandpa Don, brother Jack and my Dad.
Plans after graduation – Go to a college somewhere
Family –
Dad – Jason (Crookston Building Center)
Mom- Kelly (Northwestern Mental Health Center)
Brothers – Jack (9th grader)
Jacob (3rd grader)
