Michael Thornton
Millbrook receiver — senior

As Trey McFarland, Millbrook's first-year quarterback, settles into his new position, the junior will have his work cut out for him. He must master the playbook, learn his teammates' tendencies and battle opposing defensive coordinators hell-bent on making his night torturous. But McFarland does have weapons at his disposal, notably a veteran receiving corps which includes senior receiver Michael Thornton.

The 5-foot-8 pass catcher might not make for an imposing figure, but once he takes his position, most Cap-7 Conference cornerbacks will wish they were somewhere else. With more than 600 yards receiving last year — according to his coaches' stats — Thornton should compile even more this year.

Thornton recently spoke with NorthRaleighSports.com about the Wildcats' new QB, playing in the Cap-7 Conference and his thoughts on his final high school season.

Question: How has practice been different since contact drills started Saturday?
It's been great. It's more like football now. The atmosphere is so much better. We're getting hyped, and ready for the season. Everybody is a lot more into it because we have pads on.

What are some of this team's strengths?
Our defense is looking really good, and our receivers are pretty strong, with me and Scott Gray coming back. Our line has been a little rusty to start, but they will pick it up.

Is there a game this season that you have marked on your calendar?
I'm looking forward to the first one [facing Garner]. But besides that, probably Leesville Road. I haven't beat them during my career here, so I'd liked to do that. They can get a little cocky, but it's a lot of fun to play against them.

How tough is the Cap-7 Conference?
It seems like all the teams are pretty much even right now. We all have young quarterbacks, and competition is always good. Anyone can beat anybody every night. I think we have as good a shot as any other team.

What do the Wildcats have to work on?
I'd say coming together on offense. We need to do a better job of getting everybody — the offensive line, receivers and quarterback — on the same page.

Who on your defense would you not want to get tackled by?
Justus Hoffman. Just because he is the biggest guy out there.

You're a senior this year. Does it seem like this year has arrived fast?
I was looking forward to it so much this summer, and we're already through a bunch of practices, and our first game is next week.
It's just like, 'Wow,' but I'm ready to play.

Who is a rising star for the Wildcats?
I'd probably have to say our quarterback [Trey McFarland]. He played jayvee last year, but got hurt. He has been play well for us, and can help us win.
What do you like about Trey McFarland?
He has a good attitude toward everything, knows what to do and he can make plays.

Obviously you lost a lot of seniors last year. Does this year — with all these new guys — seem like a fresh start?
The guys we lost had a big impact on our team, so it does seem like a fresh start.

Which non-conference game are you looking forward to?
Garner is always a tough one because it's a good rivalry for us. It's atmosphere is great for us to play in. And I'm looking forward to playing Southern Durham because they are supposed to be pretty good, too. That game will really test us.

What is the best part of being a receiver in this offense?
We move the ball around a lot. We can run it, pass it. I like that the inside receivers — like me — we get the ball a lot. And it just spreads out the defense.

Thornton and the Wildcats look to run past Garner during their Aug. 21 season opener.