Eastlake's Whitley a consistent force

Eastlake’s Whitley a consistent force

Wolves' junior believes his team has talent to turn in a stellar 2014 season

By Shaun Scott • September 18, 2014 1:35 pm

The Eastlake Wolves advanced to the Class 4A quarterfinals last season and finished with an overall record of 9-3.

Eastlake junior outside linebacker Mark Whitley said the cupboard is far from bare this year. The Wolves are 1-1 in early season action.

“Last year we had a really strong senior class. The good thing about this year is the juniors and seniors who are coming back are playmakers. When you put the ball in their hands, they are going to make something happen,” Whitley said. “We want to excel and try to get back to where we were last year. We will just take it week by week and do the best we can.”

Whitley is a starting outside linebacker and also serves as the backup quarterback behind starting signal caller Blue Thomas. Whitley said the Class 4A KingCo is one of the most competitive divisions in Washington.

“You look at your schedule and there is not necessarily an easy game. You can’t go down the list and say there is a win right here and a win right there,” he said. “Each game is a battle. It’s really tough but it’s a lot of fun, too.”

Recently the Reporter had an opportunity to ask Whitley a few questions about his life away from the football field.

Issaquah Reporter: What is the last movie you saw in the theater?

Mark Whitley: “When the Game Stands Tall” (movie based on powerhouse De La Salle High School football program) It was pretty good. We saw it with the entire football team. It was a good lesson for us.

IR: What is your biggest pet peeve?

MW: When people are slacking off and are thinking something is not a big deal when it actually is. I like to be a perfectionist and try to get stuff done.

IR: What is favorite television show?

MW: My favorite show is How I Met Your Mother. It’s just interesting and is the kind of show that draws you in.

IR: Who is your pick to win the Super Bowl in February of 2015?

MW: The Seattle Seahawks. I was looking at their roster and they didn’t lose too many players. I think they’re a favorite for it.

IR: What is your favorite eatery on the plateau?

MW: The Sammamish Cafe. I like going there for breakfast. I usually get the meat lovers omelet.

IR: Where do you see yourself in five years?

MW: Finishing up college and then looking for work. I’m not really sure what I want to do for a career yet.

IR: Who was your idol growing up?

MW: I looked up to my father, Dave. We have a pretty close relationship.

IR: How many text messages do you send per day?

MW: I probably average about 10 per day. I like to get it done quick.