Log in | Sign Up

East Alton-Wood River quarterback Justin Englar provides big spark, puts team first

Save
Listen to the story

Quarterback Justin Englar floats back to pass. (Photo by Dan Brannan)WOOD RIVER — During East Alton-Wood River’s 47-0 season opening win over Dupo Friday night, Oiler quarterback Justin Englar could be seen making many a play in helping to lead his team to its first victory of the 2016 campaign. 

And after overcoming a start in which the Oilers turned the ball over twice in the opening minutes, there wasn’t any stopping the junior and his teammates.

Get The Latest News!

Don't miss our top stories and need-to-know news everyday in your inbox.

“Once we were able to get the ball rolling, we were clicking,” Englar said in a post-game interview.  And he gave credit to the team around him for the win.

“I’m really proud of the offensive line,” Englar said. “They did a great job tonight. I couldn’t be more prouder of those guys.”

Giving credit to his teammates is exactly how Englar approaches the game, whether it’s football, basketball or baseball, in which he plays in all three sports for the Oilers.

Article continues after sponsor message
Learn about our advertising opportunities!

“It was a total team effort tonight — it’s all about team for me,” he said.

And Englar’s hoping to help change the fortunes of the Oiler football program, which hasn’t seen much success in its recent past.

“I want to help turn things around and win more games than we have in the past,” Englar said. “I hope to help in any way I can.”

And when it comes to Englar’s goals in sports, it’s a very simple one: Go as far as possible .

“I always wanted to go as far as I can in everything I do,” he said with much pride, “but none of it is possible without a great group of guys like I have around me now.”

More like this:

The Eardley Agency Female Athlete Of The Month For Redbirds: Alton Senior Sets Standard For New Flag Football Team
Sep 22, 2026
Alton Native Sam Otwell Rallies For Godfrey Golf Title
5 days ago
Edison's Entertainment Complex Male Athlete Of Month: Logan Garman Is Key Offensive Lineman For Edwardsville Football Team
Aug 26, 2026
Kelsey Martlage Named Collinsville High School Softball Head Coach
Sep 23, 2026
Aggressive Play Powers Gogineni to Edwardsville Singles Championship
Aug 3, 2026