David Yu is one of the top national players at the quarterback position in the entire Spanish American football landscape. The young prospect is the QB1 for the Alcobendas Cavaliers of the LNFA Serie A and has been part of the team since his junior years with the Royal Oaks Knights (Cavaliers U-16 and U-19 team).
Already in his career he has accomplished achievements such as leading the Cavaliers to be the 2022 LNFA Serie B champion, marking the first time in the organization's history to move to the first division. Also, he is part of the National Team and was part of the Barcelona Dragons roster in the first ever season of the European League of Football.
Yu has given an interview talking about his beginnings in football, struggles throughout the years, accomplishments in the sport, personal life and more:
Introducing David Yu
Could you please introduce yourself and tell us about your current team?
My name is David Yu and I’m the QB of the Alcobendas Cavaliers.
Can you share a memorable moment from your football career that truly defines you as a player?
I’ve got several memories regarding football, some of them on the field and some of them off it.
But one of the memories that I would say defines me as a player is the fact that I’ve never started as a starting QB. I’ve always had to work my tail off to get where I’m at. I know that this doesn’t really count as just one memory or moment but several moments. All the lonely training sessions after hours practicing and studying that I had to do to get where I’m at. Usually one would think of a highlight play or game, but none of them would have happened if I didn’t train and practice what I have.
Where did you grow up, and how has your hometown influenced your football journey?
As an American that grew up in Madrid, getting the opportunity to play football was a privilege and playing for the Royal Oaks Knights gave me the opportunity to not only play, but also to learn a lot about the sport and its values. So I would say that it had a huge impact and I feel very lucky that I grew up where I did.
What sparked your interest in football, and who were your early influences in the sport?
My interest in football began from trying to reconnect with the US. So in my efforts of trying to do so, I started watching football and ultimately playing. But what really got me into it was watching Tom Brady play. That and that one Lamar Jackson clip that went viral on Vine back when he was still in high school.
David Yu’s Football Journey
Can you walk us through your football journey, from your early days to where you are now?
My football journey has always taken the same path. I started playing when I was 17. I’m 24 now. I started as a backup and earned my spot as a starter. Moved up to the Sr team. Back up again and earned my spot as a starter. Made the Barcelona Dragons team. Came back to my local team, won the national championship which would move us up to the first division. Made the Spanish national team and currently looking to help the team to perform as best as possible.
What are some of the proudest achievements or standout moments in your football career?
I would say that my proudest moment in my football career was earning the starting position and winning the national championships that same season.
Do you have any noteworthy statistics or records that you believe reflect your contributions to the sport?
I’ve never been a guy that tends to focus on individual statistics cause at the end of the day it’s about winning or losing. You can have a hell of a game but if you end up losing, it doesn’t really matter, does it?
Are there any personal stories or challenges you've faced that have significantly shaped your journey?
The biggest challenge I had to face was coming back from a back injury that I had a couple years back when I joined the Sr team. I had a spine hernia that wouldn’t allow me to walk without being in severe pain. But my love for the game pushed me to work hard in my recovery and push through the pain to come back and continue playing the game that I love.
David Yu: The Player & Person
How would you describe your playing style and the skills that set you apart on
the field?
I would say that my playing style is very similar to Josh Allens. I can throw the ball but I can also run. I’m not super flashy but I get the job done. I wish I could be as athletic as Lamar, but I’m a big guy and I can break a couple tackles and still make the play.
In what ways do you believe you've made an impact on the sport of football or inspired others?
I would like to say that my biggest impact is made off the field, trying to be a good teammate, player and even coach. I love to share my knowledge and help others improve their game.
Beyond football, what are some of your interests or passions?
Well, I’m currently doing a masters degree in Sports Marketing so I think that pretty much talks about how much I love sports in general. But besides that, music, movies and playing video games with the boys are some of my favorite things to do.
Past & Present Outlook
What is your current role within your team or the league, and how do you see it evolving?
As hard as it is, I’m getting older and every year younger guys join the team. I’m becoming a vet and my main role is to guide these younger guys in their journey of adapting to the league and becoming not only a leader but also a role model.
Looking ahead, what are your aspirations and what goals do you hope to achieve in your future football endeavors?
My mind is set right now on hopefully joining the bravos team and becoming a well known player in the ELF.
Final Words from David Yu
In your own words, how would you summarize your legacy and the mark you've left in football?
Knowledge. In the end the only thing I want is the sport to grow both in Spain and in Europe. And if I can help make that happen by sharing my knowledge, so be it.
To conclude, is there a particular quote or message you'd like to leave with our readers that encapsulates your journey and philosophy?
Both Football and Life will give you as much as you want as long as you’re willing to put in the work.
David Pinto Maeso.
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