Getting an email form my 3rd grade teacher saying "your son is a natural leader and is destined for great things," has affected my life for the past 7 years. I have grown as a leader over the years not only on the field but in the classroom as well. Growing as a student-athlete has taught me several life lessons that I believe can translate to the collegiate level. I can take on challenges and find how to overcome them. Prior to the start of my sophomore year I was supposed to be on the varsity team due my growth and performance through spring football and summer strength and conditioning camp. But due to a minor knee injury I was put on the junior varsity team, which turned out to be a blessing in disguise. I was able to take advantage of the playing time I received to add to my skill level and get better.
Even though I wasn't on the varsity team, I accompanied them and was a coaches' assistant for the head defensive coordinator to keep track of the defensive plays that were called. Which even furthered my IQ for the game. The knowledge I gained helped me improve my game and helped me work first hand with the varsity players which I saw and learned and transferred their leadership skills to my own on the junior varsity team.