The #1 Sophomore In North Dakota: Luke Starcevic
Luke Starcevic is a 4 Star recruit who plays Defensive Tackle at Kindred High School. Starcevic is ranked as the 109th best recruit in the class of 2027 and is ranked as a top 10 Defensive Tackle in the class as well. In addition, Starcevic is listed as the #1 recruit in the state of North Dakota. He holds offers from schools such as Oklahoma, Auburn and Washington.
Who are some role models in your life?
The biggest role model in my life is definitely my dad. He’s helped me with everything I’ve done and is a great person to model myself after.
What artists do you listen to pregame to get you hyped up?
I don’t really have my own playlist—I usually let the other guys pick the songs—but my favorite song is definitely “Dreams and Nightmares”. It always gets me hyped up for the game.
What are the strengths of your game?
I’d say my strengths are my heavy hands, high motor, and the ability to play low and quick, especially for my age. I try to bring intensity on every snap.
What is your favorite memory of your career?
My favorite memory has to be winning the state championship last season. All the hard work we put in from the start of summer paid off. There’s no better feeling than seeing it all come together like that.
Who is the best player you have ever played with or against in your career?
The best player I’ve played with is Riley Sunram. He’s a great leader and helped me learn so much about the game. He’s also just flat-out dominant on Friday nights. I also have to mention my brother, Jake Starcevic. He’s a tremendous player and always finds a way to make big plays.
What advice would you give to an aspiring D1 athlete?
First off, I’d say I’m still an aspiring D1 athlete myself—there’s still a lot of work ahead. But if I had to give advice, it would be this: work hard in everything you do. Hard work always pays off, whether people are watching or not.
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be?
I’d probably go to Hawaii. It just seems like a beautiful place, and I’ve never been there before.
How old were you when you fell in love with the game?
I’ve loved football for as long as I can remember. My dad introduced me to it at a young age, and I’ve been hooked ever since.
If you could meet one sports hero, who would it be?
I’d want to meet Walter Payton. I’ve always admired him—not just because I’m a Bears fan, but because he wasn’t the biggest, fastest, or strongest guy out there. He became one of the greatest through sheer work ethic and mindset, and that’s what I try to model.
What is your favorite sports moment as a fan?
My favorite sports moment as a fan was sitting front row at a Bears game when I was younger.
