Braden Vaughan

For the last three years, it’s been a practice in patience for Post Falls High senior Braden Vaughan.

Upperclassmen playing above him on the depth chart on the football field eventually getting hurt has led to his opportunity the first two years.

He’s also — when time allows — shined in a part-time role on the soccer field as well.

But this year, his final year, it’s on him on the depth chart.

And he hasn’t let that get away from him.

Vaughan, a 5-foot-8, 184-pound running back and kicker, has accounted for 14 touchdowns, 32 extra point kicks and two field goals this season.

Post Falls improved to 6-0 with a win over Wenatchee last Friday and opens 5A Inland Empire League play at home this Friday against Lake City.

“I’m definitely excited to get my shot and to be the guy all season,” Vaughan said. “I’m excited to see what I can do and try to help the team.”

So far, so good in that regard.

Vaughan shares the backfield with fellow senior Quin Bennett this year, with Bennett getting carries in short yardage situations.

“He does a good job of making people miss,” Post Falls coach Blaine Bennett said of Vaughan. “And then Quin comes in and just runs people over. It’s a really good 1-2 punch. Braden’s a great leader and fits really well in with the rest of these seniors. It’s a special class, it really is.”

And Vaughan is enjoying every second of it.

“It’s a lot of fun right now,” Vaughan said. “We’ve got good team chemistry and we’re enjoying practices. It’s a good environment to be in in the locker room. We’re a good team this year. We prepare our best throughout the week for the team we’re facing and finishing the game.”

And if you didn’t think he was busy enough, Vaughan plays club soccer for the North Idaho Inferno and holds down a part-time job at Zip’s in Post Falls. All while holding down a 3.8 grade point average.

“I play once in a while with the soccer team when football isn’t conflicting,” said Vaughan, who plays defender. “It’s kind of hard to manage all of it. But I get it done.”

What’s your favorite food?

Vaughan: “I like burgers, cheeseburgers. I like getting them from Zip’s. I like the employees there.”

What’s something you do before a game?

Vaughan: “I like to listen to my own music and really get in my zone. It really helps get me prepared mentally. It depends really, but I like to go on YouTube and watch some football videos and pump-up videos.”

Country or rock music?

Vaughan: “I like country music. I don’t really have a specific favorite artist. I’ve got Jason Aldean in my car right now. I just like listening to whatever is on the radio.”

When it comes to video games, are you more likely to play Madden or FIFA?

Vaughan: “I like FIFA. I play Madden also, but not as much as I play FIFA. Sometimes, it’s a way to relax before the game, or I’ll go over to a friends house and we’ll play a couple of games.”

Favorite movie?

Vaughan: “Friday Night Lights. I like Varsity Blues, but Friday Nights Lights is a good movie. I just like the entire plot to it and everything about it, and the scenarios and how it works out.”

What’s one thing you need to do to start the day?

Vaughan: “I like to eat cereal. Lucky Charms is up there for sure.”

How did you wind up the kicker on the football team in addition to running back duties?

Vaughan: “I just had a leg on me, so I tried it out and it worked, so I just kept doing it. I don’t mind kicking it, it’s not too bad.”

Favorite subject in school?

Vaughan: “I like science classes. It just appeals to me a little more than other classes. I really enjoy the classes.”

Future plans?

Vaughan: “I want to go to college. I want to play sports in college if it’s possible. I’d like to play football in college, but if it’s soccer, I’d be glad to take it.”

Favorite quote?

Vaughan: “I can do all this through who gives me strength,” a quote from Philippians 4:13 in the Bible.