Sauk Valley Athlete of the Week: Dixon football’s Brenden Kastner

Name: Brenden KastnerSchool: DixonSport: FootballYear: SeniorWhy he was selected: He ran for 136 yards with two touchdowns on 15 carries, and intercepted a pass on defense in a 28-13 win over Plano to open the 4A playoffs. He also had seven tackles.During the regular season, he had 48 tackles, a sack, two forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries and a defensive touchdown. Kastner was voted the Sauk Valley Athlete of the Week, presented by Loescher Heating and Air Conditioning. Here is a Q A with him.How did you first get into football? What has helped keep you in it?Kastner: I first started playing in seventh grade just because all of my friends did. It’s been the most fun I’ve ever had.What kinds of things have you learned from football?Kastner: The value of hard work and the importance of teamwork.Was there anything you worked on coming into the season or feel you have improved on?Kastner: I got a lot faster.What has stood out about this year’s team?Kastner: We have struggled at times