Judson Overmyer returns from back injury to make last season count for Oak Harbor football
OAK HARBOR ― Judson Overmyer was surprised when his name was called as a wide-eyed sophomore.
He broke his leg trying to catch a pass in the end zone on his first snap in a loss to Huron two years ago. He jumped to catch a touchdown in the same end zone in the second quarter Friday in a 29-28 victory over the Tigers in the Sandusky Bay Conference Bay Division.
Overmyer's touchdown from Mike Lalonde was from 25 yards, into tight coverage.
"We set up screens the whole game and set up a screen and go," he said. "We scored on that earlier in the year. I knew it was my turn to make a play. I got outside the corner and Michael put it up to go get. Michael made great throws all game.
"He's going to be great."
Overmyer intercepted a pass in the first half.
"[Dylan] Hohler is a great player," he said. "He's a threat anywhere he goes. I was in the right place at the right time. I got under it. To do that on the opening drive, homecoming game, big crowd, one of the top teams in the state [rankings].
"That was a momentum boost out of the gate against a great offense."
The circumstances would have been special for any athlete. A former ball boy, Overmyer isn't any Oak Harbor player.
"Judson has been all about Rockets football from a young age," Oak Harbor coach Mike May said. "Ever since I can remember. He's great at helping the younger players. He's a great kid and a great leader."
Overmyer suffered a spinal compression injury in a setback at Genoa this season. He was taken to an ambulance on a backboard, but missed only the next game.
"That was the scariest moment of my life," he said. "It happened so fast and they're calling EMS out there for me. I've been through injuries. Luckily, I was back for Week 4. I scored my first touchdown of the season that game [Toledo Woodward].
"I still feel it here and there. Football takes my mind off it. Something that scary, with all the questions. I'm so thankful for Dr. [Jason] Tank and the staff to get me back. To make a play as a senior in the biggest game of the year in this area."
Each team entered with five victories and the matchup finally provided Oak Harbor a gauge after facing three struggling opponents in a row. The Rockets like where they sit, with the next test at Edison (5-2, 2-0) next week.
Overmyer started a few games at wide receiver and occasionally in the slot last season. He started at corner against Rossford.
"I was a rotational player," he said. "I know the offense. I can play any of the receiver positions and come in when we need. I made it a goal to step up as a leader. We have a lot of athletes. You knew your number wouldn't be called all the time, but when it is you step up and make plays to do what you can to help the team win."
He improved his play when others have the ball.
"I have good speed, good hands," he said. "I stepped up as a blocker. You have to block to keep your spot. We take pride here in being physical."
Overmyer's teammates see a presence.
"He's a tough player," said Rockets linebacker Carson Ridener, who sets a high bar despite being only a sophomore. "He has the ability to make plays. For his size, he has heart. He loves the game and I have confidence in him at any time."
Typically the most diminutive player on the field, it should be noted Overmyer is 5-foot-7 and weighs 150 pounds.
"It's always been that way," he said. "I wasn't the biggest when I was younger. It gave me a chip on my shoulder. Some people might not think I can make a certain play. If they're bigger, they think they'll get by me. It's very satisfying.
"It's a physical sport and I'm the smallest one. It makes me feel good to make plays when they don't expect it."
Break a leg.
mhorn@gannett.com
419-307-4892
Twitter: @MatthewHornNH
This article originally appeared on Fremont News-Messenger: Overmyer knows not to take anything for granted for Oak Harbor
