Mikel James, Coronado's team captain, has excelled this year on both sides of the ball. 

James has played quarterback, cornerback, linebacker, running back, safety and even punter during his time at Coronado. 

James, having only thrown two interceptions on the year, has generated more turnovers defensively than he has given up on offense.

This year he has taken over as the team's starting quarterback where he has thrown for almost 500 yards with three touchdowns through the team's four games. On the defensive end, he is a starting defensive back with three interceptions.

"He knows where to go, at the right time, all the time," volunteer coach Daniel Najarian said during practice. 

James didn't start playing quarterback until his freshman year of high school on the junior varsity team, but has ascended to the starting role in a little over two years. 

Head Coach Curt LeBlanc said that it's James’ passion for the game that makes him so great as a player and a leader for the young Coronado team. 

"That’s the important thing," LeBlanc said. "Having passion for what you do because that will inspire others." 

That kind of passion for his school has shown through his play so far. James threw for 176 yards and a touchdown in the team's loss at Kingman last Friday night.

James’ punting prowess has also earned him attention at the 3A level. Against Bourgade Catholic James had four punts that averaged 41 yards.

LeBlanc had high praise for James’ knowledge of the game as well. He has consistently maintained a dialogue with LeBlanc with the constant goal of improvement for the team and himself. 

"He'll have his ideas and stand by those ideas," said LeBlanc.                      

Coronado’s next game is against Wickenburg at home on Friday.