Neosho Wildcats Senior Football Player Kipp Box

Parents: Aaron Box & Kimi Box

Siblings: Half-sister Jessica Whittington, half-brother Michael Whittington, and Hunter Box, a junior in high school

Favorite Subject: Art

Favorite Food: Fair-Style Corn Dogs

Favorite Sports Movie: Rocky

Favorite Pro Sports Athlete: Atlanta Falcons Defensive End Grady Jarrett

 

 

Box is Terrific Talent in the Trenches for Neosho Wildcats Football Team  

 

As a two-way starter in the trenches for second-year Head Coach Leon Miller’s Neosho Wildcats senior high football team, senior offensive tackle/defensive nose tackle Kipp Box (6’4”, 270 pounds) gets little time to rest on Friday nights.

But, despite pulling a double-duty workload, Coach Miller has a great deal of confidence in Box’s capabilities to handle his dual role and says, “Kipp has worked hard to make himself one of the best linemen in our league.

“He worked hard to drop some weight and then built himself up to be a super two-way player for us. He gets it, what it takes to be an outstanding football player and is committed to doing his best.”

While he may be quite good at both positions, Box says, “I like playing defense better. The thing I enjoy most about defensive nose tackle is causing havoc and panic for the interior of the line.”

Box admits, “The most challenging thing about playing nose tackle is taking on double and triple teams and having play recognition.” At the same time, though, Box believes his “best strengths are my initial hit and explosive footwork.”

As for his play at offensive tackle, Box suggests what’s most challenging is, ironically, the thing he’d also consider to be his best skillset. “As much as I say that pass blocking is difficult, it is my strength.”

Coach Miller says as offensive tackle, Box is most effective thanks to his “size and strength, as well as good feet,” and he’s dominant on the defensive front because he “demands a double team or he will make a play easily.”

Regardless of which position is his favorite, Box notes, “I’ve played both ways ever since I can remember.

“I’ve never had to rely on starting one way only and for that, I’m actually kind of grateful. Both ways get you in shape and make you a better athlete.”

Miller has no complaints about the magnificent mindset Box brings to his Wildcats squad, on and off the field, as an exemplary student-athlete and says, “Kipp is an easy-going, fun-loving kid.

“He’s learned to work hard and is very talented. He has a quiet leadership about him. He’s the kind of person that would you anyway he can.” ???

Ultimately, what makes Miller most proud to have Box on his side is, “just the kind of person he is and his overall attitude toward his team and our program.”

As his high school football playing career closes out at Neosho, Box will likely leave a legacy that reflects exactly what a true team player is all about. And, he’ll surely leave some big shoes to fill as well.