CALDWELL, N.J. -- Bursting onto the scene and making an immediate impact -- particularly on opposing ball carriers -- last year was Damian Tavares, who came to Caldwell from Pasco, Washington, in the southeast portion of the state near the Oregon border. And while Caldwell doesn't find too many student-athletes from The Evergreen State, Head Coach Louie Matsakis is glad Tavares made his way the 2500+ miles east.

Quickly earning the respect of his teammates, not just for his record-breaking 22 tackles (17 solo) vs. Penn on October 26 and Second Team All-Collegiate Sprint Football League (CSFL) selection. They voted him captain as a sophomore, and the hard-hitter looks to build on that success in his expanded role on this year's team, which opens play at Penn next Friday, Sept. 19.

Tavares took a few minutes to talk to CaldwellAthletics.com about his personal and team goals in the latest Cougar Captain's Corner.

What is your main goal for your team this season, both on and off the field?
We want to be the strongest and mentally tough team on the field in the CSFL. Off the field, we aspire to be students who take care of business in the classroom and with our studies.

What is a team motto or a core value that will drive your team this season?
GRIT is our team motto. It means that no matter the situation and no matter the problem we will always find a way to come out on top.      

What is the one thing you want fans to know about your team?
We as a team want our fans to know that we are here to change the perspective about Sprint Football and prove to everyone we can play competitive football just as much as any other college football team. 

Who is a player on your team that we should be watching out for this season, and why
I think junior starting safety Yves Jean is a player you should be watching closely this season. He is ready to prove what he can do and be a huge difference maker to our starting defense.

What is one personal goal you're striving for this season?
My goal this year is to be selected as a first team all-conference linebacker and break another school record. I am striving to accumulate the most tackles in a single season and at least one interception

What are you most looking forward to in your first season as a team captain?
I am looking forward to motivating and pushing everyone to accomplishing their goals and the high standards I know they are capable of.

After you graduate, what are you hoping to do next?
I am only a sophomore right now, but I hope to have my own business and be able to keep playing football at the next level.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your team or this season that we haven't asked about?
We are ready to shock the CSFL! GO COUGS!