Greg Ricketts
Rochelle, Ill.
Class of 2023
Why did you choose Central?
I chose Central because of the coaches that recruited me and the players that showed me around on my overnight. From the beginning, I felt I fit in with the team and that the coaches cared about me, and I was right about both. The coaches and my teammates have helped me immensely throughout my time at Central on and off the field.
Favorite professor and why?
I have enjoyed classes with Tuan. He always has something interesting or funny to say, and I enjoy listening to his football insight. He also gives his students’ academic freedom regarding projects and other assignments, which makes schoolwork enjoyable.
You are majoring in Economics because?
I am an economics major because the topics interested me, and economics has a broad scope. The theories of economics apply to many different areas, and I feel like this major will allow me to be versatile moving forward in my career.
Besides athletics, what else are you involved in on campus?
I have been increasingly involved in Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) within Central’s campus, at the American Rivers Conference level, and at the national level. This organization centers around student-athletes' needs throughout the NCAA and, in my case, Division III athletes. Although this is an athlete and athletics-focused committee, I have been able to gain a lot of great experience in a variety of different areas.
Who are your go-to musical artists?
I am a moody music listener who changes quite often. I have consistently had Kid Cudi as my top artist over the last few years. I also listen to a lot of Kanye West and Post Malone. But being from the Midwest, I also enjoy country singers like Tyler Childers, Brett Eldredge, and Billy Currington.
How has attending Central and playing a sport impacted your life?
Coming to Central to play football has been the greatest decision I have made in my life. Through Covid, injury, and other hardships, so many things have been put in perspective for me. I am blessed to be surrounded by such great people within our football program and on campus.
What should everyone know about Rochelle, Illinois?
Since Rochelle is the intersection of several major transportation routes such as railroads and highways, Rochelle is labeled the “Hub City.” This nickname resulted in my high school mascot being the “Hubs.”
What is your favorite Chicago sports team?
I cheer for the Chicago Bears. Unfortunately, things have not been great recently. However, I usually keep expectations extremely low for the team, so I am not consistently disappointed.
Best non-academic book you’ve read in the last year?
I read Jon Gordon’s book
Training Camp: What the Best Do Better Than Everyone Else, and I enjoyed it. It talks a lot about mental toughness and consistency, which interested me.
If you were a famous wrestler, what would your stage name be?
Due to some prior nicknames from jobs and hobbies, I think it would either be Rowdy Ricketts, Business Greg or Big Rig Ricketts. Maybe I could drive to the ring in a massive excavator or machine of some sort.
Favorite TV Show
Dexter or Psych. I am a big fan of murder mystery and comedy-type shows. Dexter is a little on the darker side but is still quality content.
What’s it like to play for Coach McMartin?
Playing for Coach McMartin is an experience. He always has something up his sleeve. Whether it is a motivational story, a goofy joke, or a good piece of advice, he always has something to give you.
What’s your favorite part about being a member of Central Football?
My favorite part about being in the Central football program is the togetherness and family like atmosphere. I do everything with my teammates, which is how I like it. Of course, I have friends outside of the team, but when I look to do things with people, I default to my teammates. Also, the togetherness is not just with the people you play with; it runs throughout time. I have met a variety of people older than me who also played football at Central, and it gave us a common connection that means something. Playing in our program means something no matter when you play.
What do you hope to be doing ten years from now?
This is a question that I have been thinking about a lot lately with graduation fast approaching. I know I want to be in athletics, but I am still deciding what route I want to take to get there. I want to be involved in athletics and have an opportunity to impact student-athletes positively.
Favorite food from Central Market
The brisket quesadilla is my favorite. Maybe I am a poser because I never get the sauce that comes with it, but there is nothing better than a brisket quesadilla at the market.
Bucket list
Top Five Bucket List Not in Any Order
- Go to the Rose Bowl
- Visit Spain
- Meet Drew Brees
- Build a house
- Go to the Super Bowl
