At just 9 years old, Nicholas “Niko” Dimoulas already understands what it means to lead a team. A third grader at Burr Intermediate School in Commack, New York, Niko is part of the Class of 2034—but his approach to football is well beyond his years.

Niko’s football journey started at age five with flag football, but it wasn’t long before he strapped on the pads for his first tackle season at seven. Growing up on the sidelines of varsity practices with his dad—who coaches at the high school level—football was more than a weekend sport; it was a way of life. “What sparked my interest in football was going to practices with my dad and having catches with him,” Niko says. “I also watched a lot of football growing up.”

For Niko, quarterback isn’t just a position—it’s a responsibility. “What I love most is being the leader of my team and getting them ready to practice and play,” he says. And that leadership is backed by intense preparation. Niko trains every Saturday with Coach Brady from Elite QB and he never misses the Northport Football Camp each summer. During the offseason, he’s dialed in: speed work, bodyweight training, fundamentals at night, and throwing at least four times a week.

It’s not just about talent—it’s about character. Niko credits his development to hard work, dedication, and always studying the game. “My QB coach says all great QBs are calm, confident, and decisive,” he adds. One of his biggest inspirations? Tom Brady. “He inspired me to put the work in to be the best QB I can be,” says Niko, who admires Brady’s relentless drive and discipline.

But football isn’t all Niko does—he also wrestles and plays lacrosse, proving he’s an all-around athlete. And even with nerves before games, he’s got a plan. “I focus on my breathing techniques, get my throws in, and pump up my teammates to get us ready.”

The best part? Niko’s never had a football injury. He takes care of his body with smart training and discipline in the offseason. That mindset is already paying off—he scored two touchdowns in his very first tackle game. “It made me believe that I belonged on the field and gave me the confidence to continue.”

Driven by passion, inspired by his dad, and grounded in preparation, Niko Dimoulas is building something special—one rep, one throw, one practice at a time. The future is bright, and this young QB is just getting started.