Bethel Park quarterback focused on winning
As the 2015 high school football season approaches, Jeff Metheny awaits the campaign like an expectant father. He is both anxious and excited.
“This year is going to be special,” said Metheny, who enters his 22nd season at the helm at Bethel Park. “I’ve seen a lot of these kids grow up.”
One in particular has grown up before his eyes. His son, Levi, begins his fourth year as the starting signal caller for the Hawks.
“It’s a dream come true for sure to coach my son and his friends,” said Metheny.
Levi, likewise, has enjoyed the ride so far and respected his dad’s decisions along the way, even the ones that kept his competitive juices contained. Though he wanted to strap on the pads sooner, Levi did not start playing football until he reached the fifth grade.
“It was my dad’s decision,” said the 18-year-old son of Cindy Metheny. “Yes, father knows best,” he admitted. “I’m happy with the way things turned out.”
Levi turned out to be a starter by his freshman year. He completed 81 of 135 passes for seven scores and 1,071 yards. He tossed only two interceptions. After another 1,000-yard campaign, the senior is expected to be one of the top quarterbacks in the WPIAL this fall.
According to both father and son, Levi has improved his throwing ability, his agility and speed. He has slimmed down, dropping 15 pounds from his frame, which was listed as 192 on last year’s roster. “He looks good,” said Jeff. “I’ve gotten faster,” Levi said, “but my numbers in the weight room are up. I’m optimistic.”
Experience has both Metheny men enthusiastic. In guiding the Hawks to a 6-4 season and a post-season berth last year, Levi completed 92 of 161 passes for 1,156 yards. Before suffering a shoulder injury, Levi tossed 10 touchdowns in eight games. During conference play, he threw no interceptions.
“Levi takes care of the ball,” said Coach Metheny, noting his only pick last year came in the season opener against Central Catholic. “He’s done a good job of that. He’s able to adjust to what teams give and take.
“Levi understands the game, from punting to field position to scoring points,” Metheny continued. “He’s experienced and he understands what it takes to win.”
Winning is of utmost importance to Levi, not statistics.
“The No. 1 thing with Levi is not yards,” Metheny explained. “It’s whether we win the game. That’s No. 1 with him. Levi’s a competitor. He really gets after it in the weight room, on the field, in the classroom.”
Academically, Levi maintains a 4.0 grade-point average. That aptitude coupled with experience makes Levi a valuable asset for the Hawks. However, he is well aware there is room for improvement.
“Experience is definitely the No. 1 main thing. I know what the other teams are doing and that will definitely help out this year but I need to improve, my speed and patience. Like staying in the pocket,” he said.
An experienced offensive line, featuring guys like Joshua Sosnak, Mark Dunlap, Chris Pauley, Jake Dixon and James Gmiter, affords Levi that luxury. Plus, he has a fine set of receivers upon which to rely.
“I’m optimistic,” he said. “It’s not just me because we have everything. Our offensive line is back and we have skill guys returning. I think we can win and have a nice year but we need our younger guys to step up.”
Not just at quarterback does Levi step up. For the Hawks, he is asked to punt. Plus, he starts on defense at outside linebacker.
“On offense, Levi does more than manage the game and on defense, he makes plays,” said Metheny. “He’s physical. Whether he’s running the ball or playing on defense, he’s very physical.”
Smarts, savvy and strength all make Levi attractive to college recruiters. While he is entertaining all possibilities and positions, he is keeping his options open.
“There is no dream school. College is up in the air. It all depends,” Levi said. “I’m just focused on my senior year. I’ve been working hard for this. We’re going to just take it one game at a time.”
Regardless of where he attends college and regardless of whether he plays quarterback or linebacker, at this time, Levi is certain of one thing. He wants to follow in his father’s footsteps. He plans to major in education and minor in business.
“I would like to be like my dad,” Levi said. “Be a high school coach to start and maybe work my way up to the college level.”