Ishmael

What do they love most about playing their sport(s)?

Ish's passion for football is ignited by an insatiable drive to excel, fueled by the electrifying rush of achievement. He also values the sport's emphasis on family values, which has enabled his brother to forge meaningful bonds with teammates that will last a lifetime. Since embarking on his football journey at age six, Ish has committed himself to honing his skills, as a freshman starting at DL. Ish is embracing the sport's transformative potential to shape lives and foster growth.

Who inspires them—on or off the field—and why?

Coach Reggie Jones is a phenomenal inspiration to me, both on and off the field! He empowers me to strive for excellence in everything I do, whether it's exceling in the sport I'm passionate about or achieving academic success. He instills in me the confidence that, with relentless effort, I can overcome any obstacle! His inspiring influence extends far beyond the playing field, and I feel fortunate to have Coach Reg in my life.

What’s one moment in their athletic journey that makes you proudest?

As a dedicated athlete mom and mother of five, I've learned that the hard work and sacrifices are all worth it when I see my son thrive. A particularly proud moment was when a University of Hawaii football player, a defensive lineman, took the time to inspire my son amongst everyone else during a team tour, gifting him his gloves and offering valuable advice: with perseverance, good grades, and determination, he can achieve his dreams and make it to the top. That fill my heart.