Zach Gookin '25 Recruiting Profile

Hello! I am Zach Gookin, I am 6' 3" and 310 lbs. I have always enjoyed playing sports since I was 3 years old. In the 6th grade I received a flyer to invite me to play Spring football for Ozark Football League. Until this time I had not played football but had a desire to learn. Due to my size, I was welcomed right away at the first meeting. But my size difference has been my biggest challenge to overcome. Due to this challenge, I have developed more confidence, a harder work ethic, and a desire to be the best that I can be. 

Over the years I have taken to heart some words of encouragement that my coaches have given me. You can achieve your goals by putting in the work and when you do extra work outside of the field it will show in your performance on the field. So I make sure that I take every opportunity to achieve my goals. From doing extra work outs and being early to practice. I also participate in multiple sports and work with a personal trainer. The other word of wisdom is to keep mentally positive. My personal trainer reminds me to "Feed the positive Dog, not the negative Dog!" 

My short-term goals are to graduate High School with a 3.5 or higher GPA, playing football, and paving a way towards a secondary Career. Then continue my passion for football in the college arena, that supports my academic goals. Long-term would love to be among the fortunate that get to the NFL.  

This year as a Freshman I was able to play for both my freshman team and the backup for Varsity. Achieving the honor of receiving my letter for football. I am excited to say that I will be starting on Varsity team this upcoming season.