I only got to play for Coach Long my junior year, but I had the utmost respect for him. I did not have the best season that year but he really helped my confidence by never losing faith in me. Senior year I played for Coach Allman. One moment in particular I remember with him was while we were playing SA Clark in the playoffs. There was a long field goal opportunity against the wind that most coaches would have just said punt or go for it, but he turned to me and asked if I could make it. I said yes sir, went out and drilled it and for some reason that moment stuck.
My favorite season was definitely my senior year. I don't know anything else that is as fun as making a run to state with your best friends in high school. It is something you dream about when you are a little kid, and we got to live it. On that team we had guys like Tanner Price, Louie Swope, Bryce Hager, Miles Berger and one of my best friends James Robison. James' dad and my dad went to Westlake together, and he was my holder and one our best defensive backs, even returning an interception for a touchdown in the state game. We all were heartbroken when we lost the final game in overtime, but having such a great group of friends go through a season like that together is a great memory that I will never forget.
What would you say to prospective Westlake football players who are hopefuls to be picked to play at colleges?
You have to really want it, and nothing, not even God-given talent, can replace hard work and dedication. Also, always believe in yourself; if you don't, no one else is going to.
What would you say to them about how to follow their dream even if they're not picked for a football scholarship?
Continue to believe in yourself and work hard. There are a ton of successful players who were not on scholarships. I am not even on a scholarship right now, but I worked hard and finally earned the starting job regardless.
So what's your passion? Is there some organization or effort you believe passionately in when you're not on the field?
My passion doesn't necessarily involve a single organization, but instead I would like to help change the world for the better with fitness and health. My major is Sport Management, and whether or not football works out as a profession, I would like to open a gym or organization that helps as many people as possible reach their health and fitness goals.
Any big plans for this year?
As a team, the two main goals are to become our conference champions and to win a bowl game. Individually, I always set my goals as high as possible, and this year I am aiming for the Lou Groza Award.
Did you know?
The Lou Groza Award is presented annually to the top college football placekicker in the United States by the Palm Beach County Sports Commission. The award is named after former Ohio State Buckeyes and Cleveland Browns player Lou Groza.
25