Putting the team first is something Brentwood High School football coach Clint Finch and his staff have preached all offseason leading up to this new year.
"We before me," Finch said.
"I tell you what, Mark (Brothers) is a we before me guy," he added. "Regardless of the level – high school, college or pro – that selfless approach, we just don't see it enough anymore.
"Mark has exemplified that thoroughly."
For his dedication to his team, Brothers was selected as the first Herff Jones Heart of the Team award winner for the 2022-23 school year. Herff Jones has partnered with the Williamson Herald to highlight student-athletes like Brothers, and in addition to the recognition, he will be featured on a live broadcast from Tony's Eat and Drink in Franklin Monday at 6 p.m. as part of the live "WillCo Sports Power Hour" broadcast.
Brothers began playing inside linebacker and fullback for the Bruins as an underclassman, but was asked to make the switch to the offensive line as a junior.
"We were in desperate need for offensive linemen so we asked Mark about it and without hesitation, he made the switch for us," Finch said. "We thought it would be best for the team and for him and he simply said, 'Whatever is best for the team.'
"It's just pretty cool to see something like that when everybody wants instant gratification nowadays. Mark has showed that when you work hard and stay committed you find success."
Brothers, who worked in plenty of JV games in 2021 and hit the weight room relentlessly in the offseason, is now the starting center for the Bruins. Brentwood is coming off a 23-14 win over Blackman in Week 1 and heads to Father Ryan Friday.
"Mark is just a great kid – a steady one that is a great example for others," Finch said. "Being an offensive lineman isn't a glamor position, but he has bought in and works hard on the football field.
"He's as good of a kid as you will find."