Howell senior Bryce Kish is quite simply the engine that keeps the Highlanders moving.
“Well, he does it all… Offense, defense, special teams. He really does it all. [It’s] hard for him to come off the field because he means so much to this team,” said Howell Head Coach Brian Lewis.
But in their first game of the season, Kish ended up fracturing a finger. The injury forced him to wear a club over his hand, limiting his ability to use it. But even with the added challenge, it was no excuse. Kish had no intention of coming off the field.
“It wasn't really ever a thing, honestly. We haven't really talked about it. We haven't really said ‘Can he carry it, can he not?’ I mean he just is Bryce. He's going to find a way to get it done, which is why he's so amazing and awesome and unique,” said Lewis.
“I'm still going to run the ball hard and still run the ball the way I do just in one hand, I guess. It's definitely a little different, a little more bulkier and different than just using my hand. But it's not bad. I'm just glad I still get to play with it,” said Kish.
But Kish’s impact goes beyond the stats or what he does between the lines. It’s the work behind the scenes, the way he carries himself and the example he sets for those around him.
“You never have to worry about him off the field. He's a great leader, great decision maker… just servant oriented and humble hearted… just a different type of kid, a special person, and [I’m] really proud that he's a Howell Highlander,” said Lewis.
“He's just a different kind of breed. He's just a really, really talented player. He's a super good human. It's just great to have him on our side and playing with our team,” added teammate Palmer VanDeven.
A STATE CHAMPS! Mr. Football candidate, Kish has earned recognition for what he brings to the game. But as he wraps up his senior season, his biggest goal has little to do with individual honors.
“It's awesome. But, you know, my main goal is just having a great brotherhood and going to Ford Field with my brothers and winning a state championship,” said Kish.
