Junior linebacker Vito Pickard Jr. stepped up to make a significant impact for Homewood-Flossmoor. His goal extended beyond the team’s interests. It was personal, especially regarding coach Troy McAllister. McAllister was competing against his old school, Sandburg, that Friday night.
“I knew this game was crucial for our coach because he was facing his former team,” shared Pickard. “I told my teammates I would set the tone. I would make sure we stayed focused.” Pickard delivered on his promise. He made five tackles and scored a touchdown on a fumble return. Homewood-Flossmoor (3-1, 1-1) secured a 35-13 win over the Eagles in the SouthWest Suburban Conference.
Senior quarterback Rahsaan Coleman threw a 64-yard touchdown pass to junior receiver John Gadson. This play revitalized the Vikings after their 38-7 defeat by Lincoln-Way East. For Sandburg, senior quarterback Sean Ruisz connected a 20-yard touchdown pass with senior tight end Lucas Matykiewicz, who has committed to Northern Illinois University.
Senior linebacker Cameron Wilkerson’s 19-yard fumble return touchdown turned the game farther in H-F’s favor. Wilkerson commented, “When I saw Vito score, I felt I needed to do the same. Vito shifted the momentum. He’s coachable, fast, and intelligent.”
“Vito is an excellent football player,” McAllister noted. “Playing against Sean Ruisz meant facing one of the state’s top quarterbacks.” Yet, H-F sacked Ruisz five times, forced four turnovers, and scored twice on fumble returns.
Pickard embraced the challenge. “I accepted the coaching and knew what I needed to do,” he stated. Wearing No. 25, a number more typical for running backs, Pickard’s versatility shone. He recalled, “I played running back when younger.” Late in the first quarter, Pickard showcased his skills by returning a loose ball 34 yards for his first touchdown.
“I move fast,” he described. “I saw the ball and claimed it. Following last week’s loss, showing leadership was essential. I aimed to keep spirits high.” Pickard’s journey included playing his freshman season in Hammond, Indiana. Transitioning to a new state and program aligned with McAllister’s arrival.
Pickard, now a second-year starter, finds himself in a comfortable groove. During a defensive series against Sandburg, Pickard appeared ready and determined. “Initially, it was tough, but I worked hard offseason,” he reflected. “My dad introduced me to football, and it’s always been a stress reliever.”
Standing six-foot and weighing 190 pounds, Pickard is a hybrid player. He resembles a natural safety, using speed to intercept quarterbacks or cover receivers. As a sprinter, speed holds paramount importance for Pickard.
“The atmosphere here is amazing,” he observed. “The band, the supporters, I thrive performing for them. I love creating chaos on the field.” Despite his quiet personality, Pickard becomes vivacious in games. “I’m known as quiet, but on the field, I make noise,” he stated. “Friday night showed my enthusiasm. I boosted the team and inspired better performance.”
Patrick Z. McGavin reports for the Daily Southtown.