Personal Statement
My name is Isaiah Sharpe. I am a 2021 Offensive Guard/Defensive Tackle; 6’2” and 311lbs. I currently attend Southern Wayne High School in Dudley, NC with a 3.0 GPA. I am beginning to explore my college options in hopes of playing the sport I love on the collegiate level.
Football has been a big part of my life for as long as I can remember. As a child, I was raised in a single-parent household. Although this led to many struggles in my early childhood, I was fortunate enough to have a grandfather to take me under his wing. I learned about football by watching games with my grandfather. From the players, to the positions, to the coaches, etc.- I was hooked. I gradually gained an ability to recognize and anticipate different plays, patterns, and actions. I began playing at the age of 8 and never looked back.
As luck would have it, I grew up to take after my grandfather in physical build. My size has made me a perfect fit for offensive and defensive linemen positions. Over the years I have played with several teams. I have learned that I am a very fast learner with the ability to adjust to new things very easily. My coaches have recognized this ability and depended on me to stand in wherever the team needs me. I am generally reserved, but when it comes to football I automatically step up. I understand that a team operates better when everyone is on the same page. When I see my teammates struggling, I always make an effort to help out. Not only have I grown as a leader and as a team player, but my physical skills have improved as well.
I have used my time on the field during practice, during the game, and during independent training to become a better overall player. While I am big is size, I am also very agile and quick for pass protection and run block maneuvers. As a defender, I am also explosive when using different club rip techniques with good speed to get off of the OL and make a play. One of my most beneficial physical attributes is my endurance. I currently play on both sides of the ball for my team and I easily go back and forth all night.
Football has played a large role in who I am today, and will hopefully continue to do so in college. Playing football is not, however, all that I aspire to do. I’ve worked hard in grade school with a goal of becoming an engineer. Having family that work in the field of engineering has influenced this goal and, in the future, will also help to ensure my success. I look forward to not only building relationships with my teammates, but also taking up an engineering major.
