By GERARD WELLBROCK
Hays Post
HAYS - As the Fort Hays State football team continues their preseason camp, senior quarterback Chance Fuller is trying to savor every moment.
The Arlington, Texas native known for his long-flowing red hair begins his sixth season at FHSU. After redshirting in 2017, Fuller made his first start in the next-to-last regular season game at Northwest Missouri State and helped guide the Tigers to the 17-16 win and their second-consecutive MIAA title. Fuller has played in 32 games as a Tiger and said he’s exactly where he wants to be, on the field with his teammates.
“We’re just excited to be together as a team just back on the field doing what we love to do, competing and trying to get better every day.” Fuller said.
Fuller has twice been named Second Team All-MIAA (2019, 2021) and has thrown more touchdown passes (64) than any other FHSU signal caller and he’s glad to have one of his top targets back from injury in fellow senior wide receiver Manny Ramsey.
“Glad to have Manny back. Have been here with him since I came in here but the new guys and the returners, it feels good, we worked hard this summer, worked hard with the new guys. We’re getting there.”
The Tigers finished 5-6 in 2021, their first losing season since 2012. Fuller says they’re doing all they can to not let that happen again this season.
“I think it’s just a little move of everything, a little more hard work, a little move leadership everywhere, a little more grit, just getting down and dirty” Fuller said. “It wasn’t an acceptable year for us so we’ve got to be better this year.”
Fuller holds the Tiger record for completions and passing yards in a single-game as well as touchdown passes in a season and says he’s trying to be a better leader, something which hasn’t always come naturally for him.
“I’d say I’m more of a lead by example guy but trying to be more vocal as I go. Hold people accountable, hold myself accountable and getting this team where I want it to be and where I think it can be.”
Fuller and the Tigers open the 2022 season at Northwest Missouri State on Thursday, September 1.