Center Grove running back is as tough as they come

If one were to look up the word tough in the dictionary, they may find a picture of Center Grove senior running back Carson Steele. The rising senior was forced to sit 11 games last season for the Trojans but wrapped broken bones so he could give the Trojans a chance in the Class 6A state title game against Carmel, a game Center Grove dropped 20-17. Steele had overcome a hamstring issue, as well as a fracture in his foot to suit up. “It was very tough. I was very blessed to come back and be able to play, even though I had to wrap the injuries all up and store the pain away,” Steele said. Now with those in the rearview and a big senior season ahead of him, Steele is looking to show people once again why he earned the nickname War Horse and that he is one of the premier backs to ever suit up in Indiana. As a sophomore, he rushed for 2,270 yards and 29 touchdowns. For his career, he has rumbled for 4,248 yards and 51 touchdowns. He has also hauled in 31 catches for 259 yards. Since getting involved in the game as a kindergartner, Steele has always loved the game and what it means to him. He tells Sideline Prep Sports Report that his father was a huge part of his success, as well as his mom. “I would actually play up a grade in elementary because I was too big for ball carrying weight, and that’s when I started to love playing running back. It’s a true blessing to be able to be in the position I am, and I can’t wait to show the country what I have left for my last season,” Steele said. Despite the support and hard work, he notes he has been surprised by his success, saying he was surprised to start as a freshman and have the numbers he’s been able to reel off. “I know I had worked for that opportunity my whole life, but I knew when the chance was coming that I was going to have to take it and run with it,” Steele said. Heading into his final season at Center Grove, Steele has some lofty goals, including staying healthy. “My goals for the season are to stay healthy and win a state championship. I want my team to be very successful and for all the people who have worked for it to get offers. For me, I would love to rush for 3,000 yards or more, and, hopefully, win Mr. Football. Even though I had a bum season last year, I feel that I can show people that I can still play with the best,” Steele told Sideline Prep Sports Report. And, that includes colleges, as he currently has interest from Purdue, Indiana, Kentucky and Tennessee among others.