If you’ve watched Lions Football this year, you’ve probably noticed number eleven all over the field. Entering his senior year season, Lincoln’s Kyle Dussault is faced with the challenge of becoming a leader on both sides of the ball.
“Last year I was the fourth string running back and second string safety, said Dussault. “We had Ryan Plante, Sean Clifford and Jayden Rodrigues ahead of me who are all great players. I would say this year as a starter I have a lot more weight I have to carry. Taking the starting running back role this year I definitely have a lot more responsibility but I embrace the challenge.”
This season, Dussault has helped the Lions roar to a 5-2 record, including winning 5 of their last 6 games. Dussault has scored 8 touchdowns during this stretch.
“Kyle is hands down one of the most hard working people I have ever met,” said assistant coach Corey Gaskell. “He puts every ounce of himself into everything he does, and it shows on the field. Kyle spent three years sitting backseat to upperclassmen on the team and now that it’s his turn, he is taking full advantage of the opportunity. Any coach would be ecstatic to have a player like Kyle. We as a staff are very lucky in that regard.”
Kyle was asked if he feels any pressure to perform at a high level every week.
“Coach always talks about how pressure is one’s interpretation of the moment,” he said. Last week we had six days of practice. We knew what our job was, so going into the Johnston game I felt no pressure. I think as a team spending the whole week practicing really pays off when it comes to game time.”
Lincoln has undergone massive changes from last year to this year after losing 11 seniors, including running backs Ryan Plante and Tyler Durang. Dussault was asked what the biggest difference was from last year.
“I thank the coaches everyday,” Dussault said. “I’m really glad I’m able to be a part of it this year. Last year I was swing, and I was able to learn under the seniors from last year, and I think it’s paying off this season.”
Dussault and the Lions split the final two games of the regular season defeating North Providence at home on October 25th ending a seven-year homecoming game losing streak. Unfortunately, the following week the Lions suffered defeat against South Kingstown leaving them with a 5-2 record. They will enter the Division II playoffs as the #2 seed and have a playoff matchup with East Providence on Friday night.
Dussault and the Lions entered the Division II playoffs as the #2 seed and fell too East Providence late Friday night 18-6, ending the Lions season.
