After rushing for nearly 1,600 yards and earning first-team all-league and Class 6A all-state honors last fall, Derby senior running back Arieus Finley isn’t shying away from lofty expectations entering his final high school season.

In fact, he’s embracing them.

Finley, who rushed for 1,590 yards and 16 touchdowns on 186 carries while averaging 144 yards per game as a junior, has his sights set on helping Derby make a deep postseason run while cementing his place among the state’s elite players.

“I’m excited to make a state run my senior year,” Finley said. “I’m excited to show that I’m the best player in the state.”

Those ambitions have fueled a busy offseason focused on refining every aspect of his game. Finley has trained with Brian Butler while also participating in workouts alongside former Kansas State standout and current NFL running back Deuce Vaughn as well as former NFL defensive back Elbert Mack.

The extra work has centered on improving the physical tools that can elevate his already impressive production.

“I’ve been working on my speed, explosiveness and flexibility,” Finley said.

Those improvements could make an already dangerous running back even more difficult to contain. Finley consistently displayed his ability to create explosive plays last season, earning first-team All-League recognition and first-team Class 6A All-State honors after leading the Panthers’ ground attack.

While individual accolades are part of his motivation, Finley’s biggest goals revolve around team success.

He hopes to help Derby finish the season undefeated and capture a state championship, achievements that would cap his high school career in memorable fashion.

On the individual side, Finley has set his sights on some of Kansas’ highest honors.

“My goals are Gatorade Player of the Year, Offensive Player of the Year, state champs and an undefeated season,” he said.

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