WHAT’S YOUR WHY? ESPN 3 Star Ethan Hauser “Night-Train” | National Champion | Buford High School Football

Some athletes lead with words. Others lead with volume. Ethan Hauser, better known as “Night-Train”, leads with presence.

From the way he prepares, to the way he competes, to the energy he brings into every room, Ethan is the type of athlete teammates trust and opponents feel. He plays with confidence, edge, and joy, never separating faith from effort.

Energy You Can Feel

Ask Ethan’s teammates to describe him, and the response is consistent: a leader, high-energy, fun to be around, and trustworthy, on and off the field.

That trust didn’t happen by accident. It was built through consistency, accountability, and showing up the same way every day.

“I bring great energy,” Ethan says. “But I also make sure people know they can rely on me.”

Leadership From the Front

To Ethan, leadership isn’t positional, it’s behavioral.

“My definition of leadership is leading from the front,” he explains. “Paving the way through example and action.”

That mindset shows up when the game tightens and pressure rises. Instead of shrinking, Ethan leans into the moment.

“I think about all the hard work I’ve put in,” he says. “I remind myself of God’s promises and that I didn’t come this far just to come this far.”

Built on Faith and Family

Family has been a driving force in Ethan’s journey, consistently pushing him, motivating him, and helping unlock the greatness within him.

“I have a very supportive family,” he says. “And I love them very much.”

Faith is equally foundational. His pastors and church family at Hope Experience Church have provided support, guidance, and opportunities to serve the community both inside and outside the church.

That spiritual grounding fuels Ethan’s larger purpose.

A Platform Bigger Than Football

Ethan understands that his visibility comes with responsibility.

“I hope younger athletes learn how important it is to form a relationship with Christ as they watch my journey,” he says.

He wants young athletes to see leadership modeled, not just hear it talked about. On the field. In the classroom. In everyday life.

He hopes his example gives others confidence to step into leadership roles without fear.

Confidence With Joy

Off the field, Ethan’s personality is magnetic, talkative, charismatic, and engaging. On the field, he combines a unique frame, physical confidence, and a relentless edge.

“I make sure I’m having fun out there,” he says.

That joy doesn’t mean a lack of seriousness; it’s a reflection of preparation.

Football has taught Ethan mental toughness, discipline, and a simple truth he lives by: You only get out what you put in.

Eyes on the Prize

Short-term goals for Ethan’s senior season are clear and demanding:

• Go back-to-back

• Earn a team captain role

• Finish with 100+ tackles

• Create turnovers

• Set the tone defensively

  
  

Long-term, the vision has never changed.

“The ultimate goal is the NFL,” he says. “I want to play Division I football at a high level and produce early.”

No matter the arena, Ethan wants to win and be his best doing it.

Beyond the Game

When football eventually ends, Ethan already sees another lane where his personality thrives: broadcasting, commentating, hosting, or podcasting.

Wherever he goes, his ultimate mission remains the same.

“To turn many lives to the kingdom of Christ and spread the gospel,” he says. “And to inspire people in many different ways.”

Final Word

Right before kickoff, Ethan locks in with high-energy music, “I Hate YoungBoy,” “Games of War,” or “Shot Callin.” His favorite defensive comparison is Kyle Hamilton, a versatile, physical presence who mirrors his own style. And his guiding quote sums up his entire approach:

“Hard work beats talent every day when talent doesn’t work hard.”

One word defines Ethan Hauser “Night-Train” best:

Leader.

Leader in faith. Leader in effort. Leader in energy.

And that… is his why.