All eyes will be on quarterback Niko Fortino and how he
orchestrates Gilroy High’s potentially high-scoring offense
– and he isn’t about to shy away from the attention.
All eyes will be on quarterback Niko Fortino and how he orchestrates Gilroy High’s potentially high-scoring offense – and he isn’t about to shy away from the attention.
The second-year signal caller learned first hand what it takes to be a successful varsity quarterback during the tumultuous and often frustrating 2010 season.
With an entirely new coaching staff, and a newfound awareness of his responsibilities, Fortino is ready to step front and center for his close-up.
“I’m definitely ready to put this team on my shoulders,” Fortino said. “I have more confidence. I’m ready to go. I know the offense much better. When I look up, I know my reads, my routes. I’m just much more comfortable.”
Fortino weathered plenty of ups and downs as a first-year varsity starter during his junior campaign. He completed 51 percent of his passes for 2,011 yards and 14 touchdowns – decent numbers that were compromised by 11 interceptions and a handful of fumbles out of the shotgun.
At times, he was benched in favor of the wildcat formation, where a running back handles the snaps.
Despite some of the frustrations, Fortino learned some valuable lessons he has used as lighter fluid.
“The work started right when we came back after winter break,” he said. “I learned to be the leader of the team, carry and motivate these guys. I just have to stick to running the offense, and everything else will fall into place.”
Fortino’s efforts in the gym and in the film room haven’t gone unnoticed.
“His work ethic is the reason why he is where he is,” coach Steven Lo said. “All the time he spent during the offseason, throwing, lifting, running has all led to his confidence going up. Now he has a grasp on everything, too. It’s to the point now where, I will show him the film and ask him what he sees. You need a quarterback who is confident if you want to win. The team responds to that.”
Fortino has modest goals set for himself: No. 1, reach the 3,000-yard plateau, and No. 2, earn a first-team all-league bid.
But for the team, there are some lofty expectations.
“I think we can go undefeated if we work hard and stick to the game plan,” Fortino said. “We definitely want to win league and get to the playoffs.”
