Eli Kirkes is a junior lineman for the Minco Bulldogs football team. Kirkes is entering his third season as a two-way starter, where he plays at the right guard and nose guard positions. The past two seasons, Kirkes was named to the all-district team as an offensive lineman.

“Eli has been getting better and better each year,” coach Brock Wardlaw said. “His leadership is top notch. He leads by example with his work ethic but also loves to encourage his teammates to do their best.”

And at 6-foot-4, 360-pounds, Kirkes can move well for his size with a 5.5 40-yard dash. He’s been a part of two playoff runs into the second round and after a great summer, he’s showing he’s ready to take the next step forward in helping Minco make another playoff run in 2022.

“I wouldn’t say we’re a great team just yet, but we have a lot of potential with our new coaching staff and guys we have returning,” Kirkes said. “I’d expect big things with our defense this year.”

Kirkes also competes in powerlifting, where he’s a heavyweight and has qualified for state each of his first two seasons. Kirkes will also be the starting first baseman on the Minco baseball team this spring.

Outside of athletics, Kirkes is active in FFA and around the community, where he volunteers at the yearly Minco Honey Festival.

Upon graduation, Kirkes would like to continue playing football at the next level while also getting a degree in education to become a coach one day.

“I’ve learned a lot from my coaches over the years,” Kirkes said. “I’ve always watched my coaches and tried to learn as much as I can from them. I think I’d make a great coach one day.”

In his free time, Kirkes enjoys fishing and hunting. He credits his stepdad, Herb Beesley, for his success off the field and mentioned former Oklahoma linebacker, Brian Bosworth, as being an inspiration on the field.