Friday 20 September 2024
1. Where were you born? What influenced your early childhood: your parents, teachers, coaches?
I was born in Toronto, Ontario while visiting family. I have lived in Ottawa, Ontario my whole life. My early childhood consisted of school, sports and road trips. My parents were born and raised in Jamaica. So, education has always been important to them. They passed on this mindset to me.
I grew up playing many sports. My first love was soccer. I also played basketball, ice hockey, volleyball, and other activities. I played all these sports for fun, but never for an organized team. I only played during recess in elementary school. Growing up, my teachers always encouraged me in class, as well as in my sports. They were always supportive. Thankfully, I have yet to experience a coach that has discouraged me in any way.
2. At what age did you start playing football? Did you win any awards while you were at Mother Theresa High School?
I started playing football in 7th grade. I was turning 13 at that time. In my first season, I won the Most Valuable Offensive Player Award. The following season, I won the Most Valuable Player Award. Finally, I was recognized as the Most Valuable Player once again in my final year in Ottawa, before moving to North Carolina. I played a total of three seasons of football before leaving for the United States. I missed a season due to Covid-19. I played football for the Nepean Eagles. I did not play for St. Mother Teresa High School. The Nepean Eagles are part of a community league called NCAFA.
3. You moved from Canada to North Carolina on a football scholarship at a relatively young age. What was the transition like? Were you homesick? How did you adapt to living so far away from your family and friends?.
My transition from Canada to North Carolina was relatively smooth. Of course, it was difficult at first, being away from friends and family. But, I learned to adapt rather quickly and keep myself busy. I called my family and friends consistently to still feel a sense of home with me. Thankfully, I was welcomed to my school, Asheville School, very well. They were very nice and comforting.
4. Have you noticed any differences between the educational system in Canada and the US? Any difference between the football environment in Canada vs the US?
I did not experience much culture shock when arriving in the US. The educational system at my school specifically is very tailored to the students. Since it is a boarding school, the student-teacher ratio is very good. Classroom sizes are small, and teachers work their best to aid the students. I will say, I find that the homework load is more here. But, the work in itself is not too different. In terms of football, I noticed a huge difference. The football culture in the US is very strong in comparison to Canada. The crowds are large and loud. Lots more is invested in sports here, and there are more athletic scholarship opportunities in the US. The game is more fast-paced and physical.
5. You have indicated that you are committed to the University of Virginia. What made you choose this educational institution? What do you plan to major in?
I committed to the University of Virginia because I felt like it was the best fit for me. Before I received any collegiate scholarships, I knew that I wanted to go somewhere where academics was a highly prioritized. At the same time, I wanted to play very competitive football. The University of Virginia offers both of these things to me. I am not 100% sure what I am going to major in, but I am leaning towards a business major. I still have some time before I need to make a final decision.
6. What do think are your chances of being drafted into the National Football League?
I think I have a strong chance of being drafted into the National Football League. If I continue to improve at the rate I am right now, I think this goal is very attainable. If the NFL is something God has planned for my life, I don’t see why I shouldn’t. Playing Division 1 football is a step in the right direction to play in the NFL. We have seen a handful of people make it to the NFL level from Ottawa. I hope to soon be one as well.
7. You have been successful in your football career. What advice would you give to other young people who want to pursue a career in football, basketball or other professional sport?
I am still early in my football career. But, if I could advise young people I would advise them to stay focused. Many things can distract a young athlete from their dream. I urge aspiring athletes to avoid these distractions. Also, pursuing a career in sports is not an easy task. They require many early mornings and late nights. It requires sacrifice. My biggest sacrifice to date has been leaving my friends and family at 16 years old, and that is only the beginning. Most importantly, I want to highlight the importance of academic performance. To get a scholarship, most coaches look at the athlete’s grades. Lots of aspiring athletes overlook the importance of school. Do not make that mistake. Since I have performed well in school, I have received over 20 Division 1 university scholarship offers. Focusing on school can make a world of difference.
8. Finally, do you have a message to readers of Black Ottawa Scene?
I want to thank everyone for taking the time to read my story. I strive to make Ottawa proud every day. As an athlete who previously played sports in Ottawa, I would ask that you support athletics in Ottawa in any way you can. There are many extremely talented athletes in the nation’s capital, but due to a lack of attention and support, it is difficult for them to receive scholarships and reach their goals. I know football will continue to grow in Ottawa. I can’t wait to see its progress in the coming years. I am just one of many who will eventually find success in their sports from Ottawa.