Since he was young, Northampton’s Rocco Amato has had football as a staple in his life on different levels. “I started my football career with flags and then joined the middle school team in seventh grade,” recalled Amato, who is a senior cornerback/running back. “I always found interest in the sport and a lot of my family members wanted me to play.”

Over the years, Amato progressed steadily to the point of being a starter on the Konkrete Kids’ defense this fall in his final season. And, Amato has made the most of his situation.

Heading into the Kids’ final game against Catasauqua on Thanksgiving morning, Amato leads the team in tackles with 54. His overall play certainly has been impressive this season.

Kids’ head coach John Toman can attest to his contributions, “Rocco is first-year starter on defense and has been doing a great job learning the position. He contributes on offense as a slot receiver. He is a great kid to coach and even a better teammate. He does everything we ask of him and more.”

Amato credits his success to his father, Rusty, and assistant head coach Rob Holmes. Both of them have played major roles in all of his trials and tribulations.

“My dad has been with me through all the ups and downs of my entire career, and taught me a lot,” stressed Amato. “When I was younger I was used everywhere from D-line to the secondary, but I mainly play corner and running back.

“Coach Holmes was my freshmen football head coach, and really helped me fall in love with the game. He helped me become the player I am today, and helped me through a very difficult period of my life.”

Amato finally made his adjustments in the summer.

“I began to feel comfortable with my high school career during this last summer,” noted. “That’s when I really felt everything started clicking for me and getting into a rhythm.”

He also won’t soon forget the season opener.

“My favorite game of all time was probably week one of this season against Pennsbury,” beamed Amato. “It was my first-ever start, and we made a stop to win the game.”

Being a senior, Amato has played his role on a seesaw season. But he plans to make the most of his opportunities in the finale against Catasauqua.

“Our team has had many tough losses this season, but we’ve been great at coming together and continuing to work hard,” reflected Amato. “I feel this is because of our great team chemistry. We have never given up, followed our coaching, and have just kept looking forward to the next opportunity against Catasauqua.”