Mikey Carney, B.C. high school football's Grade 11 player of the year in 2010, had a near-perfect senior year at St. Thomas More Collegiate.
The 18-year-old all-round athlete completed the final season of an excellent high school football career as the quarterback of the provincial AAA allstar team, while also earning academic player of the year honours.
Carney was also named an honourable mention for the runner-up Knights at the B.C. high school AA boys' basketball championships, and ran a leg on STM's defending gold-medal-winning 4x100 metre relay team at the B.C. high school track and field championships.
"Athletically, it's about winning. As a competitor, you always strive to win and through the years, we have been taught here you're never going to be allowed to win, you have to earn it," said Carney. "There are definitely no regrets through the years."
STM's Grade 12 athlete of the year earned an athletic scholarship to the University of Guelph this September.
When the gridiron is done, Carney hopes to further his studies in medicine.
"In Grade 12, I remember every practice, every game and memories of every coach and player and fan," Carney said. "It's unforgettable. I'll never forget STM. After my days are done at Guelph, I'll be right back here giving back."
It's what being a Knight is all about, said Carney.
"(STM) has built my character and morals. You can't get that anywhere," Carney added. "I think this school has such a history and tradition that is handed down through its students. If you don't feel that, then you likely didn't try to get involved."
Being involved defined Carney's time at STM.
He was named the MVP after leading the bantam Knights to the school's last of 10 straight Grade 8 football titles in 2007.
The following year, Carney was the top running back after leading the Knights into the junior varsity final against W.J. Mouat. He led STM back into the JV final in 2009, but lost a two-point heartbreaker to Centennial.
Carney and company never forgot that loss and this season avenged the defeat with what came to be known as the immaculate comeback in B.C. varsity playoff annals.
Trailing 32-20 in the final five minutes of the fourth quarter, STM blocked a punt deep in the Centennial end that led to a touchdown. Then, with Centennial driving downfield, Kyle Madden caused a fumble turnover that allowed Carney to engineer a game-winning drive that put the Knights into the semifinals.
"I did every sport and every single sport we did I can't think the class of 2012 was ever at the bottom of the pack," said Carney. "I think this was one of the best years our school has had in a long time.
"I thank the class of 2012 for an unforgettable year - all the teachers and coaches, all my friends and especially my parents and family for supporting me in everything I did. Without any of them, I don't think I would be in the shoes I am in today."
Today, Carney is ready to fill even bigger shoes awaiting in front of his football locker at Guelph University.
Carney believes if he works hard and keeps his grades up, he could dress in his freshman season.
"To start, I would have to buckle down and give everything I had," he said.
"That sounds like you," replied the interviewer.
"Yeah," Carney laughed.
"To be great, I have to be willing to take a step back and understand my role - whether it is to start, be a backup, or red shirt. The coaches know best - no questions asked."
