Zykee Carpenter came up big when his team needed it.
The Plant City Dolphins Midgets are, as of Saturday, Nov. 19, TCYFCC Superbowl champions. The game’s most valuable player was definitely Zykee Carpenter, 10, who scored three touchdowns – including the game-winner in overtime.
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The team needed you to play a big game, and you did. You guys won the Superbowl. How do you feel?
Just good. I don’t have any words to describe it. It’s my first Superbowl championship, and it feels good.
Is this the first time you’ve been to the Superbowl?
This is the second time I’ve been to the Superbowl. It’s the first time I’ve won it.
So you’ve been here before and you knew what it’s like. What was the key to playing so well?
Just, “If they score, keep your head in the game. Don’t give up.”
You guys took some penalties later in the game and it was tied up, so what were you and your teammates telling each other to get pumped up?
“Keep your head in the game. It’s overtime, we’ll drive.”
There was a bad snap that backed you guys up to the 20, but you found a way to get a big run. What worked for you on that play?
I just saw daylight, and I ran for the touchdown.
How long have you been playing football?
Two years.
What made you get started?
I just love football. Football’s always been my favorite sport. I love football.
Who’s your favorite player?
Adrian Peterson is my favorite running back. Odell (Beckham Jr.) is my favorite wide receiver.
What’s your favorite position to play?
Running back.
What NFL team would you want to play for?
The Carolina Panthers.
Is there any sport you’ve never played, but always wanted to try?
Baseball.
What advice would you give a kid just starting out on Mighty Mites, someone who wants to play running back like you?
Just play with your heart, and you’ll be the best person on the field.
What’s the best advice a coach has given you?
Keep your head in the game. Don’t get distracted by the crowd. Just keep doing you.
What’s the coolest thing you’ve ever done on a football field?
That last touchdown, right there. (The 20-yard run that put Plant City ahead, 20-13, in the Superbowl)
Are you going to move up next year, or staying on Midgets?
I’m going to move up.
