Noah Messer was tested early in his football career at Rochelle Township High School. The rising senior has since grown into an impactful two-way lineman, and after earning an All-Conference Honorable Mention from the Interstate 8 this past season, the three-year varsity player has set his sights on becoming a First-Team honoree during the 2020 campaign.

Messer was halfway through his sophomore season when Rochelle needed him to step up off the bench and become a starter at the offensive guard position. Battle tested, Messer returned in 2019 and started all nine games at right guard, and he was one of only two juniors to earn All-Conference recognition. Messer also recovered two fumbles as a starting defensive tackle.

“I felt like I had a good season, but I think I can improve greatly next season,” Messer said. “I thought I did well on offense, and I think I can improve on the defensive side of the ball. I want to start on both sides of the ball again and earn All-Conference for my hard work. These goals can be attainable if I can continue getting bigger and stronger.”

Messer’s impact was also felt in the wrestling room, where he split time at the 182 and 195-pound weight classes on the varsity team. The IWCOA Academic All-State honoree and Interstate 8 Junior Varsity Conference champion at 182 pounds won over 10 varsity matches for the Hubs this past season, and he aims to put himself on the 25-win board his senior season.

“My wrestling season was better than seasons I’ve had in the past and I will continue to push harder entering my senior season,” Messer said. “I improved greatly in my ability to defend against certain circumstances, and I’d like to become more aggressive on my feet. My goal is to make it on the 25-win board and this will take hard work on the mat and in the weight room.”