Luke Bonnstetter: A Multi-Sport Star in Charleston

Charleston, a bustling town known for its spirited high school athletics, is home to **_senior Luke Bonnstetter_**, a standout athlete juggling multiple sports throughout the year. His day starts early, with an alarm ringing at 5:50 a.m. Instead of snoozing until his usual 7:30 wake-up, Bonnstetter is geared up for an early basketball practice scheduled for 6:30. Arriving at the Baker Gym twenty minutes early, he typically spends this time shooting some hoops to warm up.

Just a month earlier, Bonnstetter was busy practicing football, where he shined as the starting quarterback and safety for the Trojans. With the arrival of spring, he will transition into baseball, taking on responsibilities as a pitcher and center fielder for the team. Bonnstetter’s athletic calendar is packed—football runs from mid-summer to late October, basketball takes over from November to early March, and baseball kicks off right after basketball ends, extending through the summer. This structured routine has been a part of his life since kindergarten, making daily practices and games a norm for him.

Aside from his impressive athletic skills, Bonnstetter excels academically as well, holding a **_5.33 GPA on a 5.0 scale_**, placing him in the top four of his class. “He’s like a unicorn,” says Charleston’s head football coach, noting the rarity and value of a talented multi-sport athlete like Bonnstetter.

The life of a multi-sport athlete comes with its challenges, both physical and mental. Bonnstetter’s father, Mark, who serves as the deputy athletic director at Eastern, emphasizes the importance of keeping Luke in good health. “It’s easy to overdo it,” he explains, stressing the need for balance and downtime amidst the busy schedule.

Despite the demands of athletics and academics, Bonnstetter maintains a level head, focusing on leading his teammates, especially after a challenging play. His calm demeanor and game insight have proven beneficial, particularly during crucial moments in games, such as the recent playoff match where he scored the game-winning touchdown, marking the Trojans’ first playoff victory since 2012.

Looking ahead, Bonnstetter is interested in pursuing a baseball opportunity at Lake Land College. As his father puts it, “Attitude matters, be a great teammate, and be coachable,” reminders that embody the character of this driven young athlete.