Stephen Choe, an incoming freshman at Desert Vista High School in Phoenix, Arizona, is more than just a quarterback—he’s a true student of the game. A member of the Class of 2029, Stephen has been playing football for six years, a journey that began with Monday Night Football on TV and has grown into a lifelong passion for the position that leads the offense.

From a young age, Stephen was drawn to the way quarterbacks could turn broken plays into touchdowns, watching stars like Kyler Murray, CJ Stroud, Will Howard, Drew Brees, and Tom Brady. Their leadership, poise under pressure, and determination to never quit in tough moments made a lasting impression on him. Now, he’s applying those same lessons to his own game.

What sets Stephen apart is his cerebral approach to quarterbacking. “The offense is like an equation that needs to be solved,” he explains. “The defenders are the variables. I have to figure out what they are going to do and work around that to make plays.” For Stephen, reading the defense and making the right decisions is just as important as the physical side of the sport.

His football journey started at a Larry Fitzgerald football camp when he was just seven. That early experience, highlighted by direct coaching from Fitzgerald himself, ignited a deep love for the game. Since then, Stephen has been training with renowned quarterback coach Mike Giovando at Elev8QBAcademy, where he continues to refine his fundamentals and decision-making. He credits Coach Gio with building the foundation for his success and is grateful for the consistent guidance he’s received.

This June 1–6, Stephen will take another big step in his journey by attending the QB Magazine College Tour—an intense seven-day trip where he’ll be one of the youngest quarterbacks on the roster. He’ll compete and work out alongside top QBs from across the country in front of college coaches while visiting major programs including Texas Tech University, SMU, the University of Kansas, the University of Missouri, and the University of North Texas. The experience will push him both mentally and physically and give him a taste of what it takes to compete at the next level.

In addition to his work on the field, Stephen keeps a full plate off it. He runs track, cross-country, and plays basketball, all of which help him stay conditioned and agile. Faith and family are central to his life—he enjoys going to church and often leads his teammates in prayer before games, asking God to keep everyone safe. One of his guiding scriptures is Isaiah 40:31: “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles…” It’s a verse that keeps him grounded during adversity.

Stephen recently faced one of his biggest challenges yet—a growth plate injury that sidelined him for nearly three months. Though difficult, the experience has taught him patience, perspective, and how to be a leader from the sidelines. “It’s been hard to sit and watch, but I’m making progress every day. I trust God is helping me through it,” he says.

With a strong daily routine that includes morning workouts, afternoon throwing sessions, and a commitment to clean nutrition, Stephen continues to prepare for his goal of becoming the starting quarterback on his freshman team. Long term, he’s focused on growing both as a player and as a student-athlete.

One of his proudest football memories came when, at just nine years old, he competed in a league against players as old as 14—and led his team to victory with three passing touchdowns and two rushing scores. Moments like that showcase the competitiveness and confidence that define him.

Stephen is quick to recognize those who’ve supported his journey—Coach Giovando for his technical training and Mr. Paramore, a mentor who’s helped him stay mentally strong through wins and setbacks alike. Stephen’s own advice to others is simple and powerful: Be humble, work hard every day, and don’t cheat your reps.

As he enters high school, Stephen Choe brings with him not just skill and preparation, but also a strong sense of purpose, humility, and leadership—qualities that promise a bright future on and off the field.