Xander

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

I started playing football in 2nd grade because I could tackle people, and although that’s not my main goal now I understand that it’s about stopping them from taking the ball to the end zone, and that’s what I’m best at I’ve learned to read the ball and know where it’s going, and I love to make the stop, but I also love the feeling of helping my team get to the end zone blocking is my strong point. I also love running the ball in. Really there isn’t anything I don’t love about football.

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

Mom because she believes in me and think I’m the best at everything, My Dad for always being with me and on the field helping the coaching staff to make sure I do my best in everything I do, My Cousin BJ who’s number I wear in memory of him, I hear all the stories of his football days a I pray I’m only half as good as him. Both of my uncles who also love the game and I try to live up to them. My sister who is always my biggest fan.

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

Last year one game before the championship game Xander broke his pinky in the 2nd quarter he played until halftime without a word about it at halftime he came out of the game and ask the coach to tape it up he played the rest of the game advancing to the championship. During the championship game just after halftime he hurt his knee and continued to play without saying anything about it, he played 2 overtime’s running in the winning 2 point conversion, after the games he had to be carried out.