years old. Since then, I believe I've been playing for about 11 seasons including my time in the Pop Warner's league.

 

In case the public doesn't know you, what position do you play?

 

When I first got to Clark, they put me in as a running back during my freshman season, but now, I'm a wide receiver and [sometimes] corner. Overall, it's a better fit for me catching than receiving.

 

After the cut days, did you know you were going to make the team?

 

I wasn't sure I was going to make it— it was a stressful moment. I saw a bunch of guys with plenty of potential and coach put htem on JV. At that moment, I thought it was going to be another year playing for the little ones.

 

I understand it's very tough competition to grind it out and see who the best is. When the coach chose you to play for varsity, what went through your head?

 

Honestly, I felt as if I should have been on varsity from the beginning and coach had been putting freshmen on varsity before me. It was about time he realized the great things I can do for the team.

 

When you stepped on the field on your first game, what were you feeling? How would you describe that to, maybe, a young eight grader looking to join and who would you like to play for Clark in the future?

 

It was nerve-wracking. I kept checking the scoreboard to see when it was goin to end. We were barely in the lead [but] we had the ball and I was glad we were able to pick up the win. The advice I hav for the incoming freshmen: I encourage you to never give up. Try and try again, even when you think you're going to fail. Don't stop trying to make your dreams a reality.

 

Wow. That was pretty deep. After your first team victory, what did you and the team to do to celebrate?

 

Moments after the game, we poured water all over the coach's head. It felt over-exaggerated, but it was fun. After we settled down, we got back to work. We went directly to the gameplan for the next one. Coach was disappointed that the game was close we need to widen the margin [...] and go forward. We focused on working better as a team and not to let our egos get too ahead of us.

 

Whoa, coach is strict. What did he do when you guys lost?

 

Man, everyone was disappointed. We felt as if we got cheated that game. It was only a two point game. Coach made us work better on defense and how to stop a player who just grabbed out interception. A close lose is always the hardest to bear.

 

The season is in full swing. What are your goals for now as well as for the future?

 

Ultimately, every school's goal is to make it to state. Right now, our record stands at 3-3, but I think we can make it up with hard work and dedication. All we have to do is make the best of our situation and get our heads in the game. A personal goal as a kid was to make it to the NFL but now, I'm just trying to get my diploma, graduate high school, and do something more academic— get to college.

 

Well, Mr. Jackson, I thank you for your time. It's been a pleasure getting to know you.