LYNN — The clock struck zero Wednesday night at the Agganis All-Star Football Game, marking the final high school game for many, including Nicholas Costa of Lynn Classical/North.
Costa will now turn in his pads for a military uniform as he sets his sights on becoming a Navy Seal.
“It’s something I always wanted to be,” Costa said. “I think it’s the right decision for me. I think in my life, it’s the right choice to go and experience life there.”
Costa believes football is a good transition into becoming a Navy Seal.
“Football teaches you a lot regarding your work ethic. You have to put in work every single day and just give 100 percent no matter what,” Costa said. “I think that will translate.”
Not only will Costa’s work ethic translate, but he believes his leadership will prove important.
“I try to be a leader. I know younger kids look up to me, so I try to be the best role model possible,” Costa said. “I like to lead by example, but when the time comes to it, I believe every good leader should speak up.”
Costa, representing the Rams at the Agganis Game, was everywhere on defense, making plays from sideline to sideline and leaving it all on familiar Manning Field.
After the game, Costa said he enjoyed every second of it.
“It was a good experience. It’s always fun to play football, whatever the occasion,” Costa said.
Costa was playing linebacker and made some key tackles throughout the game. His first big play was when Costa tackled South quarterback Shea Lynch out of bounds, stopping him from turning the corner.
Fast forward to later in the game, and it was Costa who held on to a South player’s jersey, stopping him from what would’ve been an easy touchdown.
“My mindset was to just do everything. It was my last football game, so I might as well put everything on the field that you can,” Costa said.
When asked why he likes playing linebacker, he pointed to the position’s “complexity.”
“I like that it’s complicated. There’s a lot to think about playing linebacker, which is fun,” Costa said. “I also like hitting, so it’s the best position for that.”
When asked if he’s going to miss playing football, Costa was quick to the point.
“Of course I’m going to miss it,” Costa said. “I’d do anything to play football again.”
