OUR ATHLETE OF THE WEEK COMMUNITY PARTNER
Each week, Monitor staff selects and interviews a local Athlete of the Week. Learn more about their accomplishments, their goals and what makes them unique. We’d like to thank our sponsor Capital City Kia.
Our partners do not participate in the selection of these athletes. That is fully at the discretion of our journalists.
Hillsboro-Deering senior running back Robert King had a highlight-studded season and carried the Hillcats’ offense to victory in the Division IV State Championship to make history for his school.
King scored 52 touchdowns across four seasons of varsity football, two years in Division II and the latter two in D-IV. He was a 2023 All-State Second Team defender and a 2024 First Team running back, and surely will top the list again this year.
In two games during this year’s playoffs, King scored six touchdowns and amassed 385 yards. He’ll continue showing his running prowess in track and field. As this chapter of high school athletics came to a close, King reflected on his experiences playing football for the Hillcats.
Q: How did you prepare for the football season?
I lift weights and hike in the offseason to stay in shape.
Q: What is the hardest part of playing football, and what is the best part?
The hardest part of football is the constant conditioning, and my favorite part is playing with my brother.
Q: What does it mean to you to be a Hillsboro-Deering Hillcat?
Being a Hillcat means you’re a part of something bigger than yourself.
Q: What do you love doing outside of football?
I enjoy learning more about history and watching football with my friends.
Q: What kind of music helps you focus for a big game?
DC the Don.
Q: How did it feel to win the State Championship for you and your teammates?
We achieved our ultimate goal. I think the main feeling we have is a sense of accomplishment.
Q: Who is your biggest inspiration?
My Dad and Mom.
Q: Who are some of your mentors, and how have they helped you?
Coach Wood formed me into the best version of myself and maximized my potential.
Q: What are some of your favorite memories of playing football?
I enjoyed and learned a lot playing in DII, but nothing beats winning a championship.
Q: If you had to give advice to younger running backs, what would you tell them?
I would tell them to run hard and trust your blockers.