High school football: Max Buss' state journal

For the next four days, a Cary-Grove football player will be sharing his thoughts on the season and playing Crete-Monee for the Class 6A state championship this Saturday. Today’s state journal is from senior linebacker Max Buss.

Approaching my final game as a Trojan is mind-boggling. It is incredibly satisfying to be going down to Champaign and playing for a state title, especially as a senior.

My teammates and I have wanted this since we first began to play football. The ride to get to this point has been gritty, accompanied by determination, perseverance and a hard work ethic. All the memories made and lessons learned will follow me throughout the rest of my life.

One of the highlights for me was playing with my older brother, Jake. It was awesome having him as a teammate, and I learned a lot from him.

Seeing my teammates almost every day throughout my high school career has been a great experience. I have so much respect for them. They are an exceptional group of guys, and I am honored to play with them. We have each others’ backs. Their talent, leadership and character are something our community can be proud of. Everything we do is as a team and for the team. All of us get better and grow together every day.

Our coaches also have made an enormous impact on me. Not only have they taught me so many valuable life lessons, but they lead by example. Learning to always put forth your best effort, how to deal with adversity, putting in the time and grinding nonstop have shaped me into who I am today.

The amount of time and dedication our coaches put into our program every day, even during the offseason, is a true testament to their commitment. I want to play well for them, my teammates and my community.

Playing football at C-G has given me something to look forward to daily. It has given me the opportunity to not only work for myself, but for my teammates. The coaches have put so much time into the game for us. They make us into leaders. I appreciate all their effort, especially my position coaches, coach Brad Seaburg, coach Phil Raffaelli, coach Rick Splitt and coach Matt Furlong.

They have influenced me and pushed me to be the athlete that I am. Sometimes I feel like I see them more than my own family. I have always appreciated them pushing us to being the best we possibly can be both on and off the field. They have impacted me in the most profound ways. I am fortunate to have strong bonds with these awesome people.

I can’t think about Trojans football without thinking about support. I appreciate the support that we get from our school and community and know that it is unique. The band, color guard, cheerleaders, pommies, superfans, families and fans have enriched my experience.

There really isn’t anything like hearing the drums playing before a game. My mom was telling me the other day about how many of the fans don’t have a kid participating in Friday night lights, but come to be a part of it.

I am also extremely grateful for my family’s support. They are always there for me and don’t miss anything. My grandpa definitely is our No. 1 fan. He watches film, offers me tips and is the first person I look for after each game.

He’s always in the bleachers two hours before the games even start. Having the chance to thank our fans with our high-five line after each game is so cool. Win or lose, they are behind us.

Knowing my last season as a Cary-Grove football player is coming to an end on Saturday is emotional to think about. Finishing the season in a state championship game is surreal and something I will never forget. It has been an absolute pleasure to be part of this phenomenal program. I know I am going to miss it.

Go Trojans!