JEFFERSON CITY — Garrett Mingucci is key returning player on the Helias defense this season and hopes a strong senior season will lead to an opportunity to play at the next level.

A 6’0, 190-pound middle linebacker Mingucci reads the play/ball well and reacts quickly and has the ability to get to the ball and make a play.

Helias recently opened up a brand new athletic complex and Mingucci had the opportunity to play on the field for the first time this past Friday.

“Our goal every year as a team is to win the district championship,” he said. “Then as players we set goals for ourselves. I think we’ll be great this year and I hope we can bring the legacy back home.”

As a middle linebacker, Mingucci says he is  constantly trying to work on his foot work as well working on taking on blockers better and finding the football.

He says he began playing football in sixth-grade for the local football program called PAL. and says the most important influential person in his football life has been his uncle.

“He played football for the University of Missouri and he constantly wants me to get better,” Mingucci said. “He pushes me to always do my best on and off the football field.”

Mingucci says he also looks up to former Helias standout tight end Hale Hentges who is currently playing at Alabama.

“I look to him and how hard he works on the field and in the classroom,” Mingucci said. “In high school, his leadership skills were outstanding and I’ve always wanted to lead my team the way he lead us.”

Mingucci says he currently does not hold any offers but does receive a few emails each week from different schools.