![The Phoenix varsity volleyball team lines up for the national anthem. “We were more communicative [with each other] during this game, and I feel like we kept our energy up, especially after the first set,” senior Jessica Valdov said.](https://theblazerrhs.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/DSC_0202-1200x800.jpg)
![Junior Alex Alkhal pitches the ball. “[I] just let it go and keep practicing so we can focus on our goal for the next game to get better as a team,” Alkhal said.](https://theblazerrhs.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/DSC_0013-1-1200x929.jpg)
A new athlete to the Rock Ridge football program, freshman quarterback Nesai Phok has quickly become one of the key leaders on the team. Off the field, Phok likes to hang out with his girlfriend and listen to his favorite tunes. In this Q&A, Phok shares a little about himself while also sharing his goals for his future with Phoenix Football.
Q: What inspired you to start playing football?
A: My family loves watching football, and I just got inspired by that. I [also] had cousins that played football, and I used to [watch them] and do what they did.
Q: How would you characterize your season so far?
A: It’s been up and down. We started off very strong, and [then] we started to have a little downfall, but we’re still working back up. We just got to work hard in practice.
Q: What is your relationship with your coaches and team like?
A: My coach and I have a really good relationship. [Regarding our team,] we are growing a better relationship and having a positive outcome.
Q: What’s one moment that sticks out to you from this season and why?
A: My first passing touchdown was a 60-yard [throw] against Warren County. It was a really good first passing touchdown. It was a far throw, and it definitely helped the team’s momentum going forward.
Q: Which professional athlete do you look up to and why?
A: Xavier Smith. He’s just a very good athlete, and his mentality is always to be better every day.
Q: How do you manage both academics and athletics when your athletics have such a demanding schedule?
A: In some classes, it’s really simple since we have practice in the morning and afternoon, [giving] us time to study at night and after practice [in the afternoon]. Some classes have extra work, so it’s a little bit harder, but you could do your work in class, making it a little easier.
Q: What do you hope to accomplish before the end of the season?
A: Definitely end off with a better record than one [win] in five [games].
Nesai Phok’s next chance to secure a win is against the Tuscarora Huskies on Friday, Oct. 17.
