Joshua Ledesma '20 Recruiting Profile

Like most athletes I aspire to compete at the college level and beyond. I like many other athletes and students who have grown up in disenfranchised communities and broken homes are way too familiar with the hardships and challenges these types of environments offer. Sadly, we are often the recipients of a life not chosen by us  but I refuse to let the short falls of one dictate my future.

Fortunately for me, I have a father, a first generation college student who learned how to overcome obstacles so that he can break the cycle of poverty, and barriers that prevent one from having a successful life. His life’s experiences prepared him to be a life-long learner and a fighter. He spent years battling with the court system so that I might have a chance at having a successful life. Unfortunately, he did not win until 2016.

Over the last few years in his care, I've had to find myself; learn to be disciplined, find self-worth, and understand my responsibilities in life. I've had to learn fast and hard.

Through these experiences, I have developed a high level of tenacity and resilience to overcome the obstacles that life may throw at me, while understanding the humility and grace needed to break through the failures one will encounter in their life’s journey.

The odds are currently against me to play college football with my current GPA and SAT scores, but I refuse to give up. I have persistently worked hard over the last few years to build my GPA to a level that will show a college I have something to offer them outside of my athletic talents. It may not be clearly visible to some but I have made consistent progress that shows my determination to succeed.

My attributes and chosen core values help develop a culture of good men and contribute to the spirit of winning and success. If given a chance to show my character on and off the field, I am certain both faculty and coaches will not be disappointed.