Mulflur is thriving as Mercer Island’s middle linebacker

By Shaun Scott • October 25, 2017 6:20 pm
Photo courtesy of Don Borin/Stop Action Photography Mercer Island middle linebacker William Mulflur (No. 40) tackles Bellevue running back Isaiah Ifanse in a contest between rivals on Oct. 13. Mulflur landed a job in the starting lineup in his first-ever season of high school football during the 2017 season.
Photo courtesy of Don Borin/Stop Action Photography Mercer Island middle linebacker William Mulflur (No. 40) tackles Bellevue running back Isaiah Ifanse in a contest between rivals on Oct. 13. Mulflur landed a job in the starting lineup in his first-ever season of high school football during the 2017 season.

Mercer Island junior middle linebacker William Mulflur had never played in an organized football game until he took the field for the Islanders’ season opener against the Liberty Patriots on Sept. 8.

Mulflur enjoyed his first varsity action of his life, but the second contest of the season against Eisenhower in Week 2 was the moment where he proved he would be a immense force to be reckoned with between the white lines.

No. 40 (Mulflur) was all over the field against Eisenhower.

Mulflur returned an Eisenhower fumble 40 yards for a touchdown and also had a 90-yard interception return, which fell just short of pay dirt after he was tackled at the 5-yard line. Those two gargantuan plays instilled Mulflur with an abundance of confidence.

“That is when I realized I can contribute to this team the whole year,” Mulflur said. “I have loved it so far. I always knew that I was a good athlete and that I could run but I wasn’t expecting to make a huge impact in the beginning. I was surprised to even be starting on this team. Every time I make a play, I feel lucky to be out here.”

Mulflur relishes the physical aspect of being the centerpiece of the Islanders defense.

“Being able to control the whole defense and feel like you are making an impact on every play is fun. You get to hit somebody every play and just be in the trenches,” he said.

Mulflur said he plans on being more of a vocal leader during his senior season in 2018.

“Because of my lack of football experience, I hadn’t felt like I could talk that much yet. Next year, I’m definitely going to try to talk more in the locker room. I hope to have more of an impact on offense next year too,” Mulflur said.

Recently the Mercer Island Reporter had an opportunity to ask Mulflur a few questions about his life away from the football field.

Mercer Island Reporter: What is your favorite movie of all time?

William Mulflur: “Step Brothers.” I don’t think there is a movie that is more funny.

MIR: What is your biggest pet peeve?

WM: People who don’t clean up (after themselves) in my car after being in it. I just think that is the most disrespectful thing ever.

MIR: What is your dream vacation spot?

WM: Anywhere in Europe. I have never even been to the East Coast so I want to venture out to the other side.

MIR: How many text messages do you send per day?

WM: I send 100 plus.

MIR: What is your favorite hobby away from football?

WM: Playing baseball. Being part of the varsity baseball team as a sophomore (2016 Mercer Island High School baseball team captured third place at Class 3A state tournament) was something special. We’re definitely excited for this year (2017 season) and trying to go win state.

MIR: What is your favorite dinner dish?

WM: It would be a nice filet mignon steak in a restaurant.

MIR: What is your favorite eatery in Mercer Island?

WM: Bennett’s.