2026 Getting to know Lincoln Sybren Hijma from Kenton


 

Name: Lincoln Sybren Hijma 

School/town: Kenton High School

Positions played: SS/FS/CB/WR

Class: 2027

Height and Weight: 6’1 190lbs

Jersey Number: 5

Awards won or earned: N/A


Other sports played: Soccer

Twitter Handle: @lincolnhijma

Please post a small recap of last season with something like a big game you had, something about a certain game, something from a bus ride to or from the game, or something that sticks out from a practice.

It was after our last game of the season where we lost 52-18 against Van Wert. There was something I saw in a lot of my brothers that day, and it was genuine heartbreak, not just because they would never play with that senior class again but because they were so disappointed in themselves because they weren’t able to help the senior class have a successful and enjoyable senior season. That senior class was special, they brought something that we had been missing which was the real concept that this team is a family. And I think with that family culture rebuilt in this program we are closer than ever to turning this program around.

What are your personal goals for the season?

My goals are to lead the WBL in interceptions, be top 5 in total tackles, be first-team all WBL, and be an All-Ohio selection.

With this being your final high school season are you preparing any differently than you have in the past?

With this being my last chance to change Kenton football back to what it was I am preparing myself more mentally than physically in the aspect of there aren’t second chances anymore and if I want to make something out of football then this season means more than anything.

SS, CB, which one do you feel you are best at?

I feel that I am best at SS because playing that position puts me in a better spot to make an impact in pass and run plays where at corner you get a little isolated away from the run game.

Can you explain to the readers what a corner blitz is and how you go about getting your timing now for it?

I personally have never run a corner blitz but against Defiance last season we ran a SS blitz and I see it as more of a trigger reflex instead if a timing thing, trying to time it up leaves too much room for error like false starts or blitzing late which both can harshly impact the defense. So I just stare down the number on the chest of the man at the end of the LOS and once he moves I trigger to squeeze off his butt and stay tight to make the play.

What's been your biggest moment as an athlete?

My biggest moment was being able to come back and play my junior year only missing one game after my hip surgery when I was expected to get midseason at the earliest.

What do you feel has to change to get Kenton back to what they were when Mauk was there?

Mindset and heart. As of the past seasons I have played I have witnessed people talk about how much they love this sport and how much they work to win but all of that talk means nothing when you don’t have the heart to go out on the field and give 100% every play. And because of these rough seasons players have gotten the mindset that we suck, and they have lost their competitive mindset that creates such good football teams

Which road stadium do you enjoy play in the most?

I enjoy playing at Celina the most because they have a great atmosphere and environment.

What are you doing during the off-season to aid you in being a better player?

I have been doing a lot of conditioning, weight training, physical therapy, and just working on my craft to become the best possible player and person I can be this season.

What was the biggest lesson that you learned at the Dayton Camp?

The biggest lesson I learned is that it is never too late to start, and it doesn’t matter where you start because if you have that mindset and heart to be great you will be great.

If you are invited to play in any of the all-star games, after the season, will you play?

I think there could be a chance I would play, but it will all depend on the position I am in during that time.

What is the best part of playing on the defense?

The violence you need to be a great defensive player

What makes you a good teammate?

I think I set a great example of how to be a football player on and off the field and I treat this team has a family, and they are my brothers whose back I will have on and off field just the same as they would for me.

What is a sport you love to play but do not have the skill set to?

Swimming.

Do you collect sports cards?

I do not.

Where is your favorite spot to grab a good meal?

I love to go to Salsa’s Mexican Grill which is a local place in town.


Student of Kenton City Schools
#studentofkcs





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