Ellis Pace '14 is a running back and kick returner for the Wofford College football team (Photo Credit: WG Sports Photos)
Fast Start for Ellis Pace '14 and Wofford Football
Former Greenie contributing for nationally-ranked Terriers
Ellis Pace '14 may be playing his final season of college football. If so, what a way to go out. Pace is a 5-foot-11, 190-pound junior for undefeated Wofford (6-0). He has carried the ball 12 times for 39 yards and has six kickoff returns for 125 yards. Pace and the nationally-ranked Terriers are presently fifth among Football Championship Subdivision teams and were the preseason favorite to win the Southern Conference. They have won five of their six games by single digits. Off the field, Pace is a Finance major who is minoring in Business. He could graduate as soon as 2018 or return to use his final year of eligibility. Pace recently took a break from his studies and workouts in Spartanburg, S.C., to talk about college, football, and his memories of Christ School.
Question: For starters, what is it like to be part of an undefeated football team in October?
Answer: It's a great feeling, especially coming off of last year. We weren't expected to do as much, and we were able to turn it around and get to the third round of the (FCS) playoffs. We came into this season with a target on us. We were picked No. 1 in the SoCon, and everyone is trying to knock us off. Everyone has the mission of beating us. It is getting a little tiring, having to win so many close games. But a win is a win, the only thing that matters is getting a W. We're happy about being 5-0. There's still a lot of work to do. We've shot ourselves in the foot in some of these games, and we've made some mistakes that I know we can fix.
Question: Wofford runs the triple option, which is a fairly unconventional offense these days. How is that for you?
Answer: My role, mainly, is to do a lot of blocking. With our offense, there is a fullback and two running backs on the field at all times. We have a good three-man rotation. I do a lot of blocking, but when I get the ball in my hands, I try to make the most of it.
Question: How are things going for you academically?
Answer: Technically, I'm a senior in the classroom. School is difficult for sure, but this school has such a great reputation. Christ School, and Mrs. Sparacino, in particular, really prepared me for this. I know how to manage my time correctly. You don't just study for a big test the night before. It can be hard to manage your time when you have practice and team meetings to work around.
Question: A lot of people remember you as a former state track champion here at Christ School. You originally signed with East Carolina University for that sport before transferring. Do you miss track?
Answer: I do miss running. I miss the thrill of lining up in the blocks, when it's just you against everyone else. There is something to be said for when it's only you. Track was a part of my life for so long. I made the choice to give it up because I missed football so much. You try not to look back.
Question: Finally, what stands out the most to you about your time at Christ School?
Answer: I was there for five years. The thing with Christ School, a lot of people talk about the brotherhood and the friends you meet. There was a time in my life where I never really thought that was true. But I have guys I graduated with who are still my best friends. I talk to them every day. The biggest impact it had on me is the brotherhood. Whenever I talk to a kid about Christ School, I tell them that's the biggest thing. The brotherhood. The teachers are unbelievable, and I always enjoy coming back to campus. I wouldn't be where I'm at without so many people there.
