2025 Interview with Baron Hardesty from Bullitt East HS (KY)
Baron Hardesty
Bullitt East HS
DE/dge
2026
6'3", 250
Jersey Number 9
Awards won or earned...
3⭐️ Rank 247 Sports
#1 Rank Edge in KY '26
All-State
All District x 2
Bullitt East HS Career Sack Record Holder as a Junior (24.5 and counting)
Academic All-State
Bullitt East HS Power Clean Record Holder as a Junior 315
12 Division 1 Offers
With this being your final season playing for Bullitt East, have you prepared any differently in the off-season?
I have always prepared heavily in the weight room for power in the off-season,, so that has stayed consistent. his off-season I am putting more focus on speed and agility and getting overall conditioned for the upcoming season.
The last time we spoke, these were the goals you had set for yourself for the 2024 season. Personally break the school sack record as a junior, make All-State Defense 1st Team, and have my team make it to state again. How did you do achieving those goals?
I did break the school sack record. mid-season as a junior and made the All-All-State Team. our team fell short in the playoffs,, but we are looking stronger this year with a big senior class pushing hard.
What did you learn about yourself last season that you can use to not only make yourself a better player but your team as well?
I learned that on this team, the players and my coaches look to me to pull up everyone else and lead. learned that I am capable of that and possibly meant for that role and will embrace it this senior season..
What makes you a good teammate?
I have developed into a more vocal leader,, and I always try and lead by example with effort and attitude.
What is the worst weather to play in?
I personally don't like the hottest heat of summer. would rather play in 55-degree weather than 90 degrees. I have always liked it cold,, and rain doesn't bother me like it does some.
Which game are you most excited about this season?
I always look forward to our district game against Louisville Male...it's our toughest competition,, which I love competing against.
Of all of the away stadiums that you have played in, which one was the best, along with the reason it was so good?
I'd have to say the University of Kentucky Stadium for our state championship game. With the energy from our crowd and the stadium alone, it was unforgettable.
Can the cheerleaders and band really get you as a player pumped up before or during the game?
I actually tune everything out before a game and throw some headphones on and get myself in a zone. try and stay focused and don't get too caught up in distractions during a game. do love the sound of the fans going crazy in the stands at big games—hat does make a difference.
What is the best advice you have been given when it comes to football, along with who gave it to you?
"Focus on what we can control; ignore the rest." From my coaches
"Do what others aren't doing in your own time,, and that will will get you ahead and put you levels above the rest on the field,," my dad always taught me.
How often do you watch game film on your own?
This past year I actually watched a lot more game film and clips as I went through the recruiting process and looked ahead to college ball.. There is a lot to be learned from watching film..
How do you get over a bad game?
Everyone has a bad game or a bad part of a game. try to keep moving forward and use that to push myself the next time on the field. d. I watch film after a game to see what could be done differently next time.
Would you share with everyone some of the schools that are recruiting you?
It has been a busy few months recruiting,, and I have been blessed to have contact with a lot of coaches. few schools heavy on the radar are the University of Louisville, Indiana University, Central Michigan, Northern Illinois, SEMO, Yale, Fordham, and UPenn,, to name a few.
Where is the best spot in your area to grab a pizza?
I like to grab pizza and wings at Boom Bozz..
Have you ever gone to Kings Island? es,, I usually go to Kings Island with a group of friends and family once every summer.
What is your favorite animal? Lion
Words from Baron
Last season was kind of a breakout season for me where I got to really unleash and reach some of my goals in the weight room and on the field as far as stats and accomplishments there. Looking forward to a strong senior season as we face a tougher schedule.
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