VYPE: How does it feel to be a two-time state champion heading into your senior year?
JAX BERNARD: It feels really good, but we want another one. It’s been a very long time since someone has completed a three-peat in Class A, and we want to go down in the history books.
VYPE: As the quarterback, how much responsibility do you have on the field — and off — to guide your team?
JB: I think I have lots of responsibility, but so does the rest of my senior class. We are a very close class and team. We all have the same mutual goal, and we try to lead by example every day for the underclassmen to follow, whether that’s in the classroom, in the weight room or on the field.
VYPE: A 41-1 record as a starter — You’ve been extremely consistent. What are your keys to success?
JB: I think we do a good job of playing one game at a time. The goal at the beginning of every week is to be 1-0. We know a target is on our back and we play every game like it’s the last time we get to step on the field.
VYPE: You’ve thrown for over 8,500 yards and 107 touchdowns in your career. Do you take pride in how much personal success you’ve had?
JB: I do take pride because I know I have worked hard for it, but the credit should go to my teammates. They’re the ones blocking and catching. I’m just giving them the ball while they do the hard work. So yes I take pride, but I know I couldn’t do it without them. I have had unbelievable teammates throughout my career, and I am thankful for that.
VYPE: What does everybody need to know about Jax Bernard, but some might not?
JB: I want everyone to know that I am a Christian. We have had lots of success these past few years, but all the glory goes to God. We couldn’t do anything without him, and he has blessed us very much.
VYPE: Talk about your teammates. Who do we need to keep an eye on this season?
JB: Keep an eye on names like Boden Miller, Eli Winens, Easton Hamar and Trace Bonham, but really watch everyone. We lost some big production last year, but some of the younger guys have really stepped up to the challenge of filling their roles. We’re having a great summer, and I can’t wait to share the field more with them this year.
VYPE: Who’s your favorite rival to play and why?
JB: My favorite rival to play would have to be Hooker. We have already played four times in my career and everyone single time has been for a district championship or state championship. Every game against them is a big game and they are always ready to play. We also battle in other sports which just fuels the fire.
VYPE: What can you share about your recruiting?
JB: My recruiting is going alright. A few Division II coaches have talked to me but not a whole lot. I’m going on a visit to Emporia State on the 24th but that’s really all I have scheduled.
VYPE: Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
JB: I see myself playing football at a college, but I’m not really sure where yet. I’ve thought about a couple of degrees I possibly want to get, but I haven’t decided on those yet either.
VYPE: How do you hope your team, classmates and teachers remember you after you graduate?
JB: I hope they remember me for being kind and always making people feel welcome. I hope they know I tried to give God glory through everything I did and that I truly enjoyed going to school with each and every one of them.
