Q) How did you first get into playing football, and what made you stick with it?

A) Back in eighth grade one of my friends recommended I play-and sent me to Coach Johnson, and the rest is history.

Q) What position do you play, and what do you enjoy most about it?

A) I play Nose Tackle and Defensive Lineman. I enjoyed learning how to stay focused and develop discipline.

Q) What has been your favorite football memory so far?

A) Definitely having a good time out at practice and school with my fellow teammates — just enjoying moments and laughs with one another.

Q) What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced on the field, and how did you overcome it?

A) Going against players who were better than me. I overcame it by studying film and practicing and preparing the week before.

Q) How do you mentally prepare for a big game?

A) Praying with my position group and having time to myself and mentally preparing.

Q) Do you have any pregame rituals or superstitions?

A) My pregame ritual is listening to music, praying, and talking to God before my games.

Q) What’s one skill you’re working hardest to improve right now?

A) Being able to just talk and interact with people.

Q) How do you balance football with school work and other responsibilities?

A) I just have that drive.

Q) What’s your favorite subject in school and why?

A) My favorite subject is English. I really enjoy writing essays and presenting.

Q) What’s the hardest part about juggling school, practice, and games?

A) Definitely stress and time management.

Q) How do your coaches and teachers support your academic goals?

A) They work alongside me. For example, my math teacher takes the time to help me understand.

Q) Have you thought about what you want to study or do after graduation?

A) I want to get into business management or getting into real estate.

Q) What’s a fun fact about you that people wouldn’t guess just by watching you play?

A) A fun fact about me is that I have a very artistic touch and specialize in drawing. I also love learning and showing magic tricks.

Q) How do you spend your free time when you’re not playing or practicing?

A) I spend it working out and volunteering with kids.

Q) Who has been the biggest influence on your athletic journey, and why?

A) My mom. She’s my support system and stood by my side every game and was always cheering.

Q) What’s one life lesson football has taught you that applies off the field?

A) Definitely time management, like getting to practice on time.

Q) What’s your approach to staying healthy and taking care of your body?

A) Workout five days a week and a little bit of cardio. I just love working out! I also keep my diet very aligned and watch what I eat.

Q) How do you handle setbacks or losses, both in games and in life?

A) It becomes a mental game, but someone is always having a worse day, so I push through because I know it could be worse. I always look for a positive in every day.

Q) What advice would you give to younger players who want to follow in your footsteps?

A) Definitely listen to what the coach says. Don’t take criticism as a failure, take it as a positive and just know that the coaches want you to succeed. Also, go into practice everyday with the same effort as a game.