Being a lineman isn’t easy, whether you’re shutting down the run, or restoring power in the wake of a storm. At NEC, we salute all linemen, from the gridiron to the power pole. Now and until December, NEC will recognize one hard-working high school football lineman along with an NEC lineman. Congratulations to our #Lineman2Lineman August players - Cole Hobbs from Calallen High School and NEC’s Journeyman Lineman Matt Smith!

Student: Cole Hobbs

School: Calallen Hight School

Grade: 12

Hometown: Calallen

Sports Played: Football

Years Playing: Approximately 10-12 including youth.

Football Position: Offensive Center

Notable Highlights: 3 year varsity starter at center, top 10% in his class, and holds several weightlifting records. 

Quote From Nominator: Cole is a leader on the field but is an even better individual off the field. He sets the example for student-athletes and represents himself, his school, his church, and his community in the way that they deserve to be represented. He always gives 100%. 

Lineman: Matt Smith

Hometown: Knoxville, TN

Sports Played: Football, Baseball, and Swimming

Favorite Sports Team: Tennessee Volunteers

Years Working As A Lineman: 12 Years

Best Thing About Being A NEC Lineman: It’s very rewarding and gives me a better sense of pride helping others and bettering there lives with reliable electric service. 

How Do You Support Your Team: By being available as much as possible when they need help with storms and passing my knowledge to the apprentices. I hope it advances their knowledge and helps them to become better lineman.

Quote From Supervisor: Matt Smith is experienced, knowledgeable, safety conscious, and thorough. He is an asset to the NEC Operations team. On a football team, the offensive lineman and defensive lineman are just like a lineman for NEC - the back bone of the team.

For more information on NEC’s #Lineman2Lineman Program, please click here. If you wish to nominate your favorite high school football lineman, you have until Wednesday, September 1st.