As a starting quarterback, Tanner Gangl is used to pressure-packed situations and opponents that, on paper, look like they may be too tough to overcome.
And through it all, the Spectrum High School (Minn.) signal caller has always found a way to overcome the odds with his teammates.
"Yes, I have faced plenty of challenges in my life, and no matter what the challenge is I’ll take it on as God is by my side while I do it. No matter what you're going through, God will be beside you," Gangl told Heartland Sports Report.
However, Gangl is now facing his toughest opponent after a visit to the doctor revealed a diagnosis he wasn't necessarily expecting. He would make the announcement in a Tweet on Jan. 11.
"Just got word from the doctors that I have been diagnosed with cancer (embryonal carcinoma). It is just a obstacle well all have them and we all have to fight them. I am not scared because God and my family is with me," he announced on Twitter.
Gangl told Heartland Sports Report that he is ready to face the battle against cancer head on.
"I had a lump in my neck, and went to see the doctors. They thought it was lymphoma at first, and it was really scary to think that I would have this. You never think it happens to you until it does. I got the diagnosis earlier today, and I wasn’t surprised by the results, but my uncle had the same and he survived, so I was optimistic," Gangl told HSR hours after the diagnosis.
With chemo right around the corner, football and working out may be placed on hold for the 2023 prospect who served as a captain this season for Spectrum.
"I’ve wanted to play ever since I could remember. My dad is a coach and it furthered my love for the game. What I enjoy most about it would be the family and the people I have met playing the sport and the future it presents for the people in it," Gangl said.
The 2021 season was a banner year for Gangl, as he went for over 2,000 all-purpose yards. The junior threw for 1,713 yards and accounted for 308 yards on the ground and 22 total touchdowns.
"Looking back at the stats, they surprised me but what comes to mind is my dream of playing college football and all the work and dedication I’ve put in to this game," he said.
Gangl told HSR that his recruiting has gone well thus far, as he had a game-day experience at North Dakota State University and has made contact with St. John's University (MN).
"One of the most important things about a school to me is the culture," he said.
However, for now, he is focusing on defeating the next opponent -- cancer -- and getting back on the gridiron with his teammates.
"No matter what you're going through, God will be beside you," Gangl said.
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