Next Play Mindset

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QB Gage Hobbs

From Redmond, Oregon, 12th grader Gage Hobbs of Ridgeview High School has built his game around leadership, accuracy, and an unbreakable mindset. Since first stepping on the field in first grade, Gage has been fueled by his love for teamwork and his drive to bring out the best in everyone around him. “I love working with my team and learning what makes people tick to get the best out of their inner self and myself,” he said. “I never want to let anyone down.”

Gage’s quarterback philosophy reflects his maturity and focus. He studies defensive looks on every snap, always reminding himself that “the next play is the most important.” He admires Lamar Jackson for his leadership and versatility — the ability to do whatever it takes to help his team win, whether it’s running, passing, or even blocking.

Off the field, Gage enjoys deep sea fishing, camping, boating, and just about any outdoor activity. He’s been a regular at Elev8QBAcademy camps since eighth grade and has also trained at Jordan Palmer’s elite quarterback summits. His development has been shaped by Coach Fanger, a former D1 player and coach who pushed him to reach new limits. “He’s extremely tough but fair,” Gage said. “When he finally gave me a compliment, I realized he really wanted the best for me.”

Despite missing his junior year due to injury, Gage used the time to grow mentally and learn from the sideline. That patience and resilience showed during Ridgeview’s playoff run, where the team went toe-to-toe with the defending state champions in a 45-42 battle. “It was our hardest fought game of the year,” Gage recalled. “We didn’t get the result we wanted, but I couldn’t have been more proud of my team.”

Now looking ahead to college, Gage continues to refine his craft with weekly throwing sessions and strength training. He believes football is the ultimate lesson in teamwork and life skills, emphasizing “hard work, sacrifice, and commitment” as values that carry far beyond the game.

Up next, Gage will be competing at the 8th Annual Mike Giovando Winter QB Camp in Phoenix, Arizona, on January 3–4, where he’ll showcase his skills alongside top quarterbacks from across the country.

“I’m looking forward to the next chapter of my football life,” Gage said. “I want to keep growing as an individual and learning what it takes to improve each and every day.”