LET’S SIT DOWN with Gee-Gees fifth-year social sciences starting quarterback Aaron Colbon. We touch on a number of subjects, including his 500-yard game and shawarma.
The Fulcrum: Big game on Sept. 7—how did it feel? I mean, it was a 500-yard passing game.
Aaron Colbon: I was shocked to be honest. I did not know it was a 500-yard game until someone told me about it. When I’m on the field, I’m in a zone; there are no numbers running through my head. I just try to get into a rhythm. I don’t even hear the crowd noise.
Speaking of which, what is the better feeling, quieting an away crowd or pumping up the home crowd?
Quieting an away crowd. I love playing at home but I like to shock the away fans. It just feels good.
Was this your biggest game as a Gee-Gee?
Statistically it was. Five-hundred yards is a great game, no turnovers. Statistically speaking, it was the best game so far.
Did people approach you in class or on campus to congratulate you on the game or just praise the team in general?
A few times in class. For the most part no, it’s basically right after the game.
What is your pre-game ritual?
I listen to music. I get in a zone. I usually get ready an hour to an hour and a half before the game. I have certain songs I listen to. I try to stay calm and relax.
Being the quarterback, what pressures do you feel from coaches, fans, and teammates?
All eyes are on you as the quarterback. That’s just the nature of the position. I just focus on my job, motivate my team or take charge in practice. I do what I have to do to forget the pressure.
What are the five most played songs or artists on your iPod?
I can’t think of a specific song or artist. Man, there’s a lot. I listen to house, hip-hop, and country.
Is there a song you play before every game?
“Savior” by Rise Against. It just fires me up.
Tell me something about yourself that not many people know.
Not many people know that I’m a good tennis player. I can hold my own against some good players. I’m not professional or anything, but I can hold my own.
Name someone who had an impact on your life.
As far as my football career: Brad Sinopoli and Josh Sacobie. Those guys were the quarterbacks when I got here. They had an impact on me as a quarterback and as a person. It was just the way they were in meetings as well as on and off the field. I was always learning.
Favourite actress?
Natalie Portman.
Worst movie ever?
Sharknado. I watched it during Shark Week. Pretty bad.
Beef or chicken shawarma?
Chicken shawarma, always. I love chicken.
Cat person or dog person?
Dog person.
What are your plans for your life after U of O?
I’m almost done at the faculty of education, so if I could get that in my back pocket it would be great. We’ll see what goes on during and after this year, but if I get a shot for the Canadian Football League, I’d like to pursue it. From there we’ll see. If not I’d like to teach, be a physical education teacher, coach football. Whatever I do, I’d most definitely like to coach football.
