There’s a difference between playing football and leading a football team—and Brayden O’Leary knows exactly where he stands. As the starting quarterback for Fredonia High School, the senior is carrying the weight of expectations with confidence and clarity. His goals are “to move the ball and finally show the people in Fredonia what we’re about,” he said. 

O’Leary isn’t shy about the progress his team has made this year, both on the field and behind the scenes. “More people involved and putting in work, along with an addition of some good young talent,” he said. “Just overall mechanics and skill have improved.”  

As the signal caller, his football IQ is always working before the ball is snapped. “I always look for the pre-snap five-yard throws or open gaps to get the ball moving,” O’Leary said. The goal each time out is clear: “Score more points than the other team, by working hard every day and improving one percent each day.” 

The heart of the team, according to O’Leary, is in the trenches. “Our O-line has a group of dawgs!!” he said with pride. 

At 6-foot-2 and 190 pounds, O’Leary isn’t just focused on wins. He’s driven by the bigger picture. “I want people to know the real me and know how much I care not only about myself but the well-being of others in and out of sports,” he said. “And to leave an impact on younger athletes coming up!!” 

His favorite moments? They come from more than just touchdowns. “All the conversations and funny nicknames our head coach (Marc Svaty) comes up with and of course winning games,” he said. 

But above all, Brayden plays with a mindset rooted in faith and belief. “My main mindset is to not belittle myself and always think more highly of myself and trust in God’s process,” he said. 

Brayden O’Leary—quarterback, leader, motivator—isn’t just trying to win games. He’s trying to build something that lasts. “I play football, baseball, and intend on doing track and basketball throughout this next year.” 

And when he takes the field on Friday nights, he’s not just representing a number. He’s representing a legacy.