Get to know Tyler Simpson, the Blue Water Area Athlete of the Week

Most Marysville fans are used to seeing Tyler Simpson on the basketball court or in a track meet. But this year, he's making his presence known on the football field as well.

The senior was voted Blue Water Area Athlete of the Week on Thursday. Simpson had a team-high 12 tackles in the Vikings' 53-12 win over Hazel Park on Sept. 1. One of those tackles resulted in a safety, in what was just the second game of his career.

The Times Herald recently caught up with the linebacker to learn more about him.

Times Herald: How long have you been playing football?

Tyler Simpson: I played in eighth grade for my first year. But this is my first year (playing) in high school.

TH: What has made you such a talented player so quickly?

Simpson: A lot of it is my coaches and my teammates really helping me out and encouraging me. But I think part of it is at the end of the day, it's just another sport. And those instincts kind of carry over.

TH: Who is your favorite athlete and why?

Simpson: I would probably say Giannis Antetokounmpo. Just because of the way he grew up and his mindset that he can always get better. I can really relate to that.

TH: What is something you enjoy doing outside of football?

Simpson: I watch a lot of TV. So I enjoy watching a lot of different shows like anime and others with superheroes. My favorite (at the moment) would be the show "One Piece."

TH: What goal do you have for the rest of the season?

Simpson: I can't speak for our whole team. But I know that if we really try our best, we can definitely make a run in the playoffs and for the rest of the season. My goal, personally, is to make the playoffs and try and win at least one (game). But I think we can go farther than that if we really put it together.

Contact Brenden Welper at bwelper@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter @BrendenWelper.