2024 Interview with Moeller Running back Benjamin Yuudai Rice

 

Benjamin Yuudai Rice

Arch Bishop Moeller (Cincy)

RB 

2027

5ft '11.5 inch  189

How long have you played football, along with the reasons you continue to play?

9 years I play because of how much of my life I have invested in it and how I believe I can change it for the better, and I love the thought of how much joy I can bring to fans, family, and teammates when I play at my best.

What or who got you started playing football?

My mom and dad are professional trainers, and I grew up in the gym. When they saw my ability, they led me to the sport. 

What is the toughest part of playing running back?

I would say that you take and deliver more blows than any other position on the field. This is why I spend so much time taking care of my body.

What are your goals for the 2024 season?

This year, I want to at least lead the GCL in rushing as well as be a great pass protector for our QB. In the future, I would love to become a state-leading rusher. The team goal is to win the state championship. and put the team goal first in the answer.

What has been your biggest moment as an athlete in any sport, at any age?

I'll do a top 3 here. Number 3 is playing FBU football at a national level. Number 2 is competing in the Junior Olympics of the USATF nationals on multiple occasions with my youth track team in Los Angeles (I was originally from there). Number 1 is winning a middle school state championship on a team where I had to play seven positions in one season, including RB, FS, SS, LB, QB, DE, WR, and slot.

As an athlete, what has been your most embarrassing moment?

Getting concussed in a FBU game

What is the best part of being a student-athlete at Moeller High School?

After years of very hard and consistent work, it's the chance to contribute in a big way to getting Moeller back to consistent national prominence, along with my football family there.

What do you believe is the strongest part of your game?

Running through tackles and using speed on the open field.

What have you been doing during the off-season to become a better player?

Working hard on agility and conditioning by training with my brothers and some teammates on hills, sand work, agility workouts, and extra weight workouts

Which type of weather do you prefer to play in?

Believe it or not, after years of growing up in Los Angeles, I prefer to play in the cold because I feel it gives favor to my power game. People don't like tackling strong or fast backs in the cold.

Which game are you looking forward to the most?

St. Edwards because when we moved from LA, they were the rivals of my older brother's original school.

What is your favorite class or subject?

Biology is probably my favorite. 

Who is your favorite athlete?

Eric Dickerson because he is the best example of how large sprint backs should play the game. 

What is your go-to snack?

My family is super clean and healthy in how we eat; that being said, I would say my mom's homemade popcorn.