Darien Davis '20 Recruiting Profile

 When I was 4 years old, my skin and hair turned white and I was diagnosed with Vitiligo with no treatment for a small boy. Not long after that I started playing football and soccer at age 5. When other kids and parents would look at me differently, it wouldn't bother me because my mom told me to be proud of that difference and to help others to learn about my condition.  I played both sports throughout my elementary years  and overcame that difference and I gained confidence.

When I was about to start Men of Summer my Freshman year, I was  faced with a life-threatening health challenge which looked like it would also threaten my ability to continue to play football.  At that same time, I had the challenge of helping to take care of my grandmother who was dying of cancer.  Despite both of these obstacles, I continued to play as if nothing had changed. Just like my Vitiligo, those obstacles were opportunities for growth, not  barriers to my moving forward. I have been a starter on both my JV and Varsity years. It wasn't easy but with the support of my family, friends, coaches and a former NFL player who also overcame a health issue,  I was  able to continue to play football and run track.  Others may have given up, but I am a fighter and I fought for my spot on the team. I gained character in learning to be persistent and accepting.  

For many high school athletes, there is a choice to make between athletics and academics. Many times I was in that position in which it seemed I had to make that decision but for me, the only choice was to find a way to make them both work.  As I have wanted to play collegiate football since I was in elementary school, I have always striven to work towards a balance between academics and my love of playing sports. It has been very important for me to keep up my grades and continue to be a Dual enrollment Honor student. With dedication and hard work, I have been able to make them both work. I have learned discipline.

As I consider my collegiate years, I have decided to major in Accounting due to my love of math.  It's important for me to find the right college that allows me to also play football as well. As I continue to mature as a young man, both mentally and  physically, I know that I will continue to experience more opportunities for growth; but I look forward to these opportunities to continue to balance both athletics and academics to be a proud representative of the team on and off the field. Most especially because for me, playing football is not just an honor but a blessing that I have been able to continue to pursue. I have learned gratitude.

Thank you for considering me for your athletic program.