Where It Begins Magazine (Sports Issue)

JEREMY MINCEY TALKS

ABOUT FOOTBALL & LIFE AFTER

2020

ALL GEARED UP! SPORTS EDITION

GAME TIME

CONTENTS NOVEMBER 2020

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David Pindell 04 Alize Thomas 06 Deidre Gaskin 08 Darryl Clack 10 TQ Wair 12 Terrika Foster-Brasby 14 Darious Harris 16 Deundria Clark 18 Bianca Williams 20 Deion “Shaq” Calhoun 22 Josh Powell 24 Bridging The Gap Golf, LLC Youth Swing Clinic 26 Tavin Cummings 28 Giovonni Thompson 30 Chris Helwick 32 Kelsey Nicole Nelson 36 Garrick Jones 40 Jack Tocho 42 Jeremy Mincey 44 Deshaune Green 46 Dawn Harper Nelson 48 Santia Deck 50

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Founder – Cece Hymes

W.I.B (Where It Begins) is an Independent agency with the aim to always be innovate in each approach taken to projects and making sure excellence is given in a projects execution when it comes to media marketing, branding, networking and management.

Founded by the well experienced and ever growing force; D.C native - Cece Hymes, the most important and integral aspect of W.I.B is that branding for both Creatives and Businesses is taken to the next level with each and every project undertaken.

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We’ve continued to represent a very diverse and well acclaimed roster of emerging talents in the entertainment, and businesses!

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With a determined persistence for continued excellence, our Founder – Cece Hymes, with a college Degree in Business Management, has also worked within radio and with many companies such as: RDE Entertainment, H.I.G.H Entertainment and Caribbean Gospel Records Ltd.,

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David Pindell 4

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A. Words of inspiration that I can give to future aspiring football players is to never give up on something that you want to accomplish… you can accomplish it you just have to have a plan on how you’ll go about it, be consistent in your grind, and lastly you have to be the first person to believe in yourself before anyone else can.

Q. Tell us what’s the next big move for you for 2021?

A. In January 2021 I will be signing a contract to play for the Columbus Lions of the Arena Football league.

“ My dream team growing up was the Falcons so probably them or the Packers because I’ve always wanted to just learn from Aaron Rodgers. ”

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us tell everyone who you are and where you’re from?

A. Hi, my name is David Pindell former UConn Quarterback and I am from Columbia, Maryland.

Q. What inspired you to be a football player?

A. I was inspired by Michael Vick, watching him play just gave me more and more motivation to go tryout for the sport because of how fun and entertaining he was to watch on tv.

Q. What aspects of football do you get most excited about?

A. The part I get excited about the most is hearing the crowd chant and be entertained by my abilities also the competitiveness of athletes that it brings out in everyone.

Q. If you could play for any team what team would you play for?

A. My dream team growing up was the Falcons so probably them or the

Packers because I’ve always wanted to just learn from Aaron Rodgers.

Q. Who is your favorite sports hero?

A. Michael Vick has always been my favorite sports hero because he’s the reason I got into the sport and he made it possible for a bunch of quarterbacks Iike myself to have a successful opportunity playing the position I do at this level.

Q. Where can the readers follow you?

A. Anyone can follow me on all social media’s IG, Twitter @Davidpindell_ Facebook @ David PIndell Snapchat @ dpindell

Q. Can you tell us your most memorable moment you had playing for the Vikings and Tampa Bay? A. The most memorable moment I had when I was with the Vikings was in minicamp my first play from scrimmage, I fumbled the ball. Also, when I was in Tampa same situation except, I fumbled on a punt return.

Q. Can you tell us one of your biggest challenges being a football player?

A. The biggest challenge for me being a Football player is trying to stay in touch with people and mostly family because when your training so much and moving across the country consistently it’s hard to see important people and stay in touch with them because you’re so busy 24/7.

Q. What’s some words of inspiration you can provide to people who wants to be a football player?

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Alize Thomas Q. How does being an athlete makes you a better person?

A. Being an Athlete held me to higher standards. Making good grades, staying out of trouble and being able to balance multiple things in different aspects in life.

Q. What mental tool do you use under pressure?

A. To just breathe I like to take deep breathes and stay calm not letting things get overwhelming.

Q. Can you tell us what has been one of your biggest accomplishments?

A. I don’t really give myself much credit, so I’ll say once I graduate.

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us tell everyone who you are and where you’re from?

A. My name is Alize Thomas usually go

by Zae or Zu I’m at Angelo State a Wide Receiver from Ft Worth Texas.

Q. Where do you see yourself in the next 3 years?

A. In the next 3 years I see myself playing on the next level and owning and investing in businesses. Soon making a bigger impact on the world in different ways.

Q. Can you describe how you would go about developing a game plan?

A. Game planning just finding out what my opponents tendencies and weaknesses are then just applying it to my game to exploit there weakness and be better to win at their strength as well then I like to apply visualizing just to see myself making big plays even in big moments.

Q. What do you do on your spare time?

A. On my spare time I’m with my family or friends watching football or sports in general mixing a little training in.

Q. If you can play for any team what team would you play for?

A. If I could play for any team it would be just any team that’s believes in me and pushes me to be greater but hey, I do love the Dallas Cowboys I’m a die hard.

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Q. Can you give some inspiring words to someone who want to be a Football player?

A. If you want to play football just live and breathe it every day and believe even when it feels like there is nothing else to believe in.

Q. Where can the fans follow you?

A. You can follow me on : Instagram @Zudaone Twitter @Zu_R2R.

“ Game planning just finding out what my opponents tendencies and weaknesses are then just applying it to my game to exploit there weakness and be better to win.�

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Deidre Gaskin

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us tell everyone who you are and where you’re from?

A. My name is Deidre Gaskin. I am a child of God, a wife, a fur mama and one of the best publicists there is as the owner of PR Firm MayLee Media.

Haha. I’m from Eastman, GA by the way of Pass Christian, MS currently residing in the metro Atlanta area.

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Q. What made you want to play basketball and run track?

A. Well I’ve always loved basketball since I could walk. I loved watching it and playing it as well. I grew watching Jordan, Swoopes, Kobe, and I loved how they played. Plus, my older cousin Rhonda played and watching her was inspiring as well. So, I tried out, made rec league, played all through school

“ Being an athlete is a mindset like no other. Athletes understand progress and the notion of practice makes perfect. “

and it was like my first love. I ran track off a bet. I ran around as a kid growing up in the projects just for fun but never took it seriously.

So, my 7th grade year my basketball teammate and I made a bet to run track to see who would make the team. We only did it to stay in shape for basketball and we made the team and did well. We both

got awards all through middle school and high school. I went on to get a track scholarship for a juco in Kansas and placed nationally. Crazy LOL. Q. I see you also played College basketball, what school did you play for and how was your experience?

A. My freshman and sophomore year at Highland Community College I wasn’t allowed because I had a track scholarship and then there was an out of state requirement that only allows a certain number of players from different states. Being that I was from GA, I couldn’t compete. I stopped playing my junior year of college when I transferred to the GSU (The real GSU, GA State) because it was too much to try and juggle 2 sports, 2 majors and a job.

Q. Who is your favorite sports hero?

A. JORDAN! Duh. LOL. I just like how he moved on the court and off the court. We both played the same position but can alternatively operate in another position if need to be as well. I saw hunger and passion with him that I don’t see too much of today. I didn’t understand marketing as a kid, like this man is popular even without his Bulls jersey on, you see him everywhere. But now as a sports publicist, I understand marketing and that’s why he’s the GOAT in my book.

Q. Can you tell us one of your biggest accomplishments you had playing basketball?

A. I mean I’ve received MVP, Sportsmanship, Best Defense and all of that but I think my biggest accomplishment is being able to keep playing after my #1 fan passed, my grandmother. She passed during the summer before my junior year and that was my worst year. I couldn’t even make a layup. I hated who I was, I hated the fact she was gone. Didn’t really dig the team... just over everything and everybody but my Senior year I had to realize that it is not what she wanted. She knew I could play, I knew I could play, and I don’t have time to wallow in should have, could have, would have and I picked myself up so I can be a leader on the court.

Q. Tell us your biggest challenges playing Basketball and Track?

A. Trying to juggle both. My junior year at state was depressing and hard at the same time. I barely made it through my first semester. I just couldn’t hang on to being an athlete and in a way, it didn’t become fun anymore. It was more like a job and I was in a new city, with new people and I didn’t feel like I fit so I made another move off the court, off the track to assist those who play professionally.

Q. What has basketball taught you that carries over into the other areas of your life?

A. Discipline and patience. Being an athlete is a mindset like no other.

Athletes understand progress and the notion of practice makes perfect.

Nowadays people want instant gratification and don’t understand that success is a process. Then folks now don’t want to do the work either. As an athlete and now a businesswoman, that mindset really carried over to the professional life with me.

Q. Are there any new skills or hobbies you picked up since the start of the pandemic?

A. Yeah, not to pick up any. I saw this meme and said if you’re not learning something new during a pandemic or building a brand you’ve already failed. This pandemic taught me something...TO SIT DOWN because I’m not in control of my life. People tend to forget this pandemic is life threatening and I’m not just talking about a physical death, but people are dying emotionally, mentally and spiritually as well. So, during this time, I’m really letting God be God. I ask him to guide me and I’ll follow because what I do is to honor him, not mankind so I can’t try to pick up things that are not meant to glorify

him anyway. This is just my opinion. If anything, I’ve learned how to rest and take care of my mental health.

Q. What advice can you give someone that wants to play basketball?

A. Play for the right reasons.

Play because you love the game, not because you feel like you have to. Then don’t give up.

If it’s something that you really want to do, go for it. Practice makes perfect. I can’t count how many times without being told, without a practice being held that I was outside playing or dribbling just because I wanted to get better. Also utilize social media to your advantage and record your progress to ultimately develop a highlight tape.

Q. Where can the readers follow you?

A. They can follow me @ DeidreGaskin on Facebook, IG and Twitter and my business @ MayLeeMedia on Instagram, Facebook and my website www. mayleemedia.com.

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Darryl Clack “Football is a sport that takes dedication. You have to be willing to not only take the positives but also realize there are negatives that come with this game and to not let that hold you back but always strive to get better.”

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us tell us who you are and where you’re from?

A. I’m Darryl Clack. I’m from San Antonio, TX. Q. How was your experience playing for Dallas Cowboys?

A. My experience playing for the Dallas Cowboys was a dream come true. I was actually living out my childhood dream. It was an honor to be a part of the Dallas Cowboys and to be on the same field with players I grew up watching. Tony Dorsett, Tony Hill, Too Tall Jones, Randy White, Danny White, and Everson Walls are a few of many, and being part of the Cowboys family with Roger Staubach, Drew Pearson, Bob “The Bullet” Hayes, Ron Springs, and Robert Newhouse was the cherry on top.

Q. Tell us about your new memoir “Hear My Story Before I Forget” and the motivation behind it?

A. “Hear My Story Before I Forget” is my therapeutic journey that chronicles my journey of my life from college and pro football to life after football, my traumatic fight to stay alive and my renewed strength in Christ. I wrote this memoir to bring awareness to TTP and mental health in hopes that my story will

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encourage and inspire people going through or coping with similar ailments. I wrote it so that parents of aspiring football players will know the signs of concussion, and I also feel that it’s my duty to make the readers aware of available treatments and therapy options.

Q. You also had a near death experience and life threating illness that you were fighting can you tell us more about it and how you never gave up?

A. On October 10, 2016, my life changed drastically. While on vacation with my family I was rushed to Tri-City Medical Center in Oceanside, CA, after suffering a stroke and falling into a coma brought on by acquired Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP), a rare blood disorder where blood clots form in small blood vessels throughout the body. The clots can limit or block the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the body & organs, such as the brain, kidneys, and heart. While in a coma I could hear friends and family telling me to fight. And that’s what I did. When I awoke from the coma, I had a lot of work to do. I had to learn how to walk and talk again. I was determined to get my life back, so I pushed hard as if I was working out on a football field.

It paid off because eventually I was

released from the hospital as an outpatient and stayed in therapy for months until my doctor released me.

Q. Also, can you tell us about “SportMetric” and how you got started?

A. SportMetric is a company that emphasizes education, community involvement, and athletics for the youth. We’re devoted to helping studentathletes achieve success in three key areas of their lives—Academics, Community involvement, and Athletics— three keys that form the ACA model of excellence. I attended a Dyslexia fundraising event hosted by a former NFL player friend. During the event, I had a casual conversation with a guy where we discussed our lives, goals, where we were from, and more. He was a Dallas Cowboy fan from Texas and a retired army man who worked in the mental health field. As we talked, I realized we had many similarities. I’m a Cowboy fan and former player, I’m from Texas, and I’m an army brat.

Through our conversation, we realized that we were both interested in hosting youth football camps, and speaking

Q. Are there any projects you’re working on right now?

A. Yes, my second book, the DC42 foundation and I’m continuing to build SportMetric, LLC. Q. What was one of your biggest challenges being a football player?

A. One of my biggest challenges was staying healthy. To keep my position and stay relevant, I would play injured. I played with a separated shoulder for a season and eventually had surgery to repair it. I would play with pain in both of my knees, ankles, and cracked ribs. Because of these injuries, I currently have arthritis in both knees, both shoulders and my lower back.

to kids about being good athletes, focusing on education, and being involved in the community. Through many more conversations, and after meeting one of his counterparts from his job, SportMetric LLC was born with Darius Perry and Josh Jakubczak as co-founders.

Q. What is the next big step for you?

A. My next step is to continue to be an advocate for TTP and mental illness.

I want to reach out to people and inspire them and educate them on the importance of those illnesses and to also break the stigma on mental illness. I also want to continue to help youth athletes in getting to the next level of their lives with education, community involvement and athletics.

A. For athletes who want to become a football player, you must be willing to put in the work. Football is a sport that takes dedication. You have to be willing to not only take the positives but also realize there are negatives that come with this game and to not let that hold you back but always strive to get better. Set your goals, set a plan, put in the work, and never lose focus.

Q. Tell us your biggest accomplishments being a football player?

A. In College at Arizona State University I was awarded first team all PAC 10 honors and led the PAC 10 in all - purpose yards.

My second accomplishment was getting drafted by my favorite team the Dallas Cowboys.

Q. Where can the readers follow you?

A. IG @dclack42 and @ darrylclack FB dclack42 FB darrylclack42 Twitter @dclack42 Darrylclack.com

Q. Tell us some words of inspiration you can provide to others that want to be a football player?

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TQ Wair

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Q. Thanks for interviewing with us tell us who you are and where you’re from?

A. I am Taquarius Wair from Minneapolis MN. Q. What made you want to play sports?

A. What made me want to play sports was my brother seeing him play and wanting to be out there made me want to play.

Q. Are there any kind of community activities or camps you in?

A. No not at this moment I was in one in Middle school and I would love to do some Community activities and do some motivational speaking also.

Q. What are some goals you have for football next year?

A. My goals are to have a great season and get a scholarship to a University.

Q. What has been one of your biggest challenges being an athlete?

A. My biggest challenge has been waiting for my time and balancing my schedule.

Q. Can you tell us one of your biggest accomplishments you have had in life?

A. My biggest accomplishment was graduating High School.

Q. How do you manage training and academics?

A. I manage it by having a set workout schedule and having a mandatory library hours.

Q. With all the struggles you been through how did you overcome it? What kept you going?

A. What kept me going was just not giving up and seeing the bigger picture I had for life. I just had to keep going.

Q. Who is your favorite sports hero?

A. My favorite sports hero is Adrian Peterson I learned so much from him watching him play football.

Q. Tell us some things you love to do on your off the field time?

A. I Love Hooping and chilling with family and friends.

Q. If you could play for any team which team would you choose?

A. I would play for any team, but I really would love to play for the Vikings because I would like to play for the home team.

Q. Where can the readers follow you?

A. everyone can follow me on Instagram: @TQ Wair @Inspire2wair.

“ What kept me going was just not giving up and seeing the bigger picture I had for life.

I just had to keep going.”

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“ I’m often challenged on my sports knowledge, often excluded from certain conversation based on stereotypes and assumptions.“

Terrika Foster Brasby Q. Thanks for interviewing with us tell everyone who you are and where you’re from?

A. Hey! So, I’m Terrika FosterBrasby, multimedia journalist and producer. I was born & raised on the Eastside of Detroit, MI and currently residing in New England in the great state of Connecticut. As a multimedia journalist, I provide written content on a some of the best basketball

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has to offer, in the WNBA. And I also produce the ESPN Women’s Basketball podcast Around the Rim with LaChina Robinson.

Q. Tell us your experience covering NBA, NFL, and NCAA Division in Basketball?

A. Covering sports is always a blast, men’s or women’s. Getting to know these athletes outside of their

respective sports and being able to tell their stories has really been a blessing to me. Of course I enjoy the travel (pre-Covid lol) and the chance to meet other journalists in the industry, but really just having the ability to humanize these players and remind those of us who look to these players like they’re gods, they are people just like us, with stories, highs, lows, triumphs and

everything else regular people have and deal with it.

Q. What has been one of your biggest accomplishments you have had so far?

A. Honestly, I think being published in the New York Times has got to be No. 1. To have a byline in one of the world’s most renowned publications is quite an honor that I cherish. I thank the editor who believed in me and allowed me the opportunity, Shauntel Lowe, she’s the real MVP! Q. Can you tell us your biggest challenges you have had in this industry?

A. As a Black woman in a male dominated industry, there are many. I’m often challenged on my sports knowledge, often excluded from certain conversation based on stereotypes and assumptions.

I’ve been ignored in the press box, harassed on Twitter. All that. But I learned to persevere. I’ve never been the silent type, so I call it out,

but I think just the way the gender gap is set up in this industry is the biggest challenge to overcome.

Q. What made you want to work in the sports field?

A. It’s always been a dream of mine to be a TV Star (I mean, doesn’t every kid? Lol) but seriously, I had a short list of careers options: a Broadway star, a lawyer, or a reporter. When Broadway and law school didn’t work out, I knew what was left.

I was always the one girl who was in the middle of everything: the basketball game, the football game, the baseball game, I mean you name it, I played it or watched

it. Sports have been such a major part of my life for almost all of my life that it just made sense that this would be the career path I would take. Growing up and seeing Robin Robert’s on SportsCenter, I knew that could be me. I just put my pedal to the metal in did what I needed to do in order to get where I am. And it certainly wasn’t an easy path, and I still have so much further to go, but I genuinely feel like this is what I am destined to be doing.

Q. Can you tell us one of your memorable experiences you have had?

A. Wow, I feel like there has been so many LOL. The first one that comes to mind is from 2018, in Los Angeles at the All-Star game. I had the opportunity to meet Chadwick Boseman and this is the weekend that Black Panther debuted in theaters.

I was beyond thrilled to be in his presence for what felt like 20-minutes, and I had the longest 20-minute conversation with his then fiancé Simone and honestly, I couldn’t even tell you what we were talking about LOL. Just being in that moment and surrounded by that kind of greatness was just something that I will never forget. She was such a genuine person and for those few minutes, I felt like he knew me.

Given his recent passing, that’s a moment that I will definitely cherish forever. I also think being in the building for Arike Ogunbowale’s shot to win the 2018 National Title was nuts! I’m sitting there and I’m thinking to myself, she’s not going to do this again, because there was just a game winning buzzer beater two nights before in the semifinals to get them there. So, I’m thinking, there’s no way this happens twice. And sure enough, it happened twice!

It was an unbelievable moment for the students there, for Coach McGraw, the Notre Dame family just so deserving of that title, and their fans were some of the best fans I have ever seen. It truly was a fun moment to experience.

Columbus was definitely fun.

Q. Are you working on any new projects?

A. I have a couple new projects that I am working on. A couple of them have to remain in secrecy until they are publicly released, but I am certainly having lots of fun working on “Here For It,” by Unseen Productions (follow @ HereForItTV on Twitter), and also working on the new season of “Tee Take Two,” which is my YouTube video blog in which I delve into a subject for two minutes. The topics range from a game break down, to politics, to racial injustice, and really just whatever pops in my head LOL. I’m super excited to get that back up and running and to be working on the new season of that because that show really gives me the ability to be myself, and to talk about things that are important to me in a way that I feel comfortable doing so and is relatable to the audience that consumes it. So, I’m really excited about that.

Q. What is one fun fact about yourself?

A. I jumped out of an airplane at 13 years old. (Don’t ask! lol) Q. Where do you see yourself in the next 3 years?

A. I certainly see myself more advanced in my career, more than likely doing some studio hosting.

Three years from now I just want to be in a solid place where I’m able to continue growing in my craft and continuing to inspire other young black girls to reach for the stars.

Q. Where can the readers follow you?

A. Follow me on social! I’m at SheKnowsSports_ on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook! And you can catch Tee Take Two on You Tube!

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“ The main thing is believing in yourself; selfbelief is everything.

Incorporate the three D’s into your training… dedication, determination and discipline and of course, never stop grinding.”

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Darious Harris WIB Magazine

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us to tell everyone who Darious is?

A. I am an Undefeated Professional Boxer / Multi Business owner from Rialto California.

Q. What inspired you to get into Boxing?

A. My father has four boys, he put us all into boxing. I am the one that stuck with it and decided to take it to a professional level.

Q. Let’s talk about N.S.G. Movement and the meaning and motivation behind it?

A. NSG movement is a positive movement that promotes grind, self-love, peace and belief. If you never stop grinding towards your dreams, they will come true.

Q. What are some things that challenge you as a boxer?

A. When you have the never stop grinding mindset, you do not think or worry about challenges, you just keep grinding.

Q. With social distancing being the new normal; what’s the next big step for you?

A. When the pandemic first hit, the gyms all closed down. Now gyms are back open, with workouts at a social distance. The next big thing for me is to get ready for 2021 so that I can fight as much as possible next year.

Q. Can you give us some words of encouragement to others who would like to be a Boxer?

A. The main thing is believing in yourself; self-belief is everything. Incorporate the three D’s into your training… dedication, determination and discipline and of course, never stop grinding.

Q. Tell us a new skill or hobby you have picked up since the start of the pandemic?

A. During the pandemic, I started my nonprofit NSG Impact. I have been focused on making sure the youth in my community have what they need to be successful with distance learning. I recently held a school supplies drive in rialto. We were able to give away 400 backpacks.

Q. What separates you from every other boxer in your division?

A. I am mentally strong, I am always physically in shape and I have an unorthodox style that no one can figure out.

Q. Which team are you training with in preparation for your next fight?

A. At this time, I choose to keep my training information disclosed, however I am working very hard, 2021 will be a great comeback year for me.

Q. Where can the readers follow you?

A. Personal Instagram: dactive_nsg Nonprofit Instagram: nsgimpact Apparel Instagram: neverstopgrindingllc Website: www.nsglifestyle.com Website: https://neverstopgrindingimpact.com.

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Deundria Clark “ In my free time I like to work out, think of new ideas for my business, create new apparel and spend time with my family.”

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Q. It’s a pleasure to interview with you can you tell everyone who you are and what you do?

A. Hello everyone I am Deundria Clark and I am a professional basketball player, teacher/basketball coach as well as the owner of Never Give Up Training. I am the head JV coach of the girls’ basketball program at Duluth high school. My goal is to teach, motivate and inspire young females to be more than just an athlete. The younger generation is the future but as females we don’t always get the recognition, we deserve so I feel it is my job to do my best to instill the knowledge and understanding I have gained throughout life thus far.

Q. You have so many awards which one has been your most memorable?

A. My most memorable would have to be becoming a champion as well as MVP of my rookie season with Sports Club in Argentina.

Q. Tell us about the experience in starting with “Argentina with Tres Arroyos sports club”?

A. It was definitely different and new for me with it being my first overseas experience. I learned a lot of new things and gained more knowledge and awareness of different cultures.

I met a lot of people, gained a lot of fans and enjoyed trying new foods. I was the first female American import in Tres Arroyos so I was shown a lot of love and support.

Q. I see you also played in Palencia Spain how was that experience?

A. Spain was a little bit different from Argentina. It was more urban and city life, kind of like home but with a twist. I had the opportunity to play, take Spanish classes as well as teach English at an academy for 2-13-year olds.

This was a great experience and I also learned more things about myself. Playing overseas is different as I stated before, but you have to be mentally prepared to weather the storm.

Q. What has been one of your biggest challenges being a basketball player?

A. My biggest challenge would have to be being my worst critic.

I’m always looking for things I can do better instead of self-praise. I think everyone has weaknesses to their game and I try to focus on mine more than my strengths.

I can have a 40-point game, get the win and still watch films to see things I need to correct in the next game.

Q. Can you tell us what is the next big move for Deundria?

A. I honestly don’t know what God has in stores for me, but I am currently working on expanding my brand to different states and eventually different countries so that I can be worldwide. I am brand ambassadors for Puma, WABA which is the league I play in, as well as OPSS which is my agency so I am trying to help build those brands and companies the best way I can.

Q. Tell us about your company “Never Give up training” and the motivation behind it?

A. My brand started out as a training program in college. I would train some of my fellow classmates as well as children around the surrounding area.

Then it began to grow more into a clothing brand which a lot of

people love to wear. Now my brand is all over the US and even in some parts of Argentina. The motivation behind it is facing so many obstacles throughout my life and realizing at a young age that I have to keep pushing and keep going no matter what. My dad also plays a huge role behind it as well because he always finds a way or goes with whatever hand he is dealt with. In 2014 he was diagnosed with ALS and ever since that day he is still going no matter what the circumstance may be. He told me “As long as you work hard to play, I’ll work hard to see you play.” That’s something I’ll never forget, and I will always use as motivation.

Q. Out of all the places you have been in the world which place has been your favorite?

A. My favorite would be argentina. There were some downfalls about being there but overall, I felt loved, safe and rewarded for my time and effort I put in while I was there. I also know if I ever returned it would be the same type of environment and energy.

Q. What are some of the things you do on your free time?

A. In my free time I like to work out, think of new ideas for my business, create new apparel and spend time with my family.

Q. Where can the readers follow you?

A. On Instagram you can follow my personal page @dclarkzero as well as my business page @nevergiveupdee On Facebook Dee Clark as well as Never Give Up Training LLC On Twitter @dclarkzero as well as @never_LLC.

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Bianca Williams

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Q. Thanks for interviewing with us tell everyone who you are and where you’re from?

A. You’re welcome and thank you for the interview. I’m a sports romance author from Baltimore Maryland. I discovered how much I love creative writing while pursuing a double major in Finance & Management at Chestnut Hill in Philadelphia. I graduated top of my class and began working in finance and co-founded an event planning company with my best friend.

first celebrity client and makes the ultimate rookie mistake of mixing business with pleasure. Bryn was constantly getting sidelined in her love life, workplace, etc... It’s not until she starts to recognize the various “plays” aka red flags, that she figures out how to avoid being sidelined. It also applies to sports. If you’re not listening to your coach, studying film, or practicing the plays, you’ll find yourself on the sideline… I loved the concept so much that I trademarked the slogan.

Q. Let’s talk about “Know the plays, or “Get Sidelined” and the motivation behind it?

A. It’s my slogan or better yet my mantra. It started off as a play on words for my book series, sidelined about an up-and-coming event planner Bryn Charles who lands her

Q. What made you want to be a sports romance writer?

A. I always wanted to be a writer, but I didn’t have a story. It wasn’t until I experienced this whirlwind romance with an NFL player followed by a horrendous breakup that I had a vision for this project. It was through

WIB Magazine

my pain that I began to write.

Although the series is inspired by true events, it allowed me to combine my creative passion with my love for sports. In the end the story chose me.

Q. You dated an NFL player.

No doubt you attended several games as does your character Bryn. In real-life what are your favorite 5 NFL stadiums?

A. AT&T Stadium in Dallas, home to the Cowboys hands down, is my number one stadium to visit. It’s the Disney Land of NFL stadiums. As you are entering the stadium, you are immediately immersed in the Cowboy experience. It’s luxe. There’s dancing, shopping, fresh foods, a live DJ, and much, much more.

And of course, there’s football

that you can catch replays on the largest Jumbotron I’ve ever seen. I would highly recommend attending a game there even if you aren’t a Cowboys fan and perhaps treat yourself to a turf level suite and feel like you are in the game. My second choice is Mercedes-Benz Stadium home to the Atlanta Falcons. It’s one of the newer stadiums and it’s a temperature-controlled dome. You’re protected from the elements, so it makes for a truly fun experience, especially if you want to look cute.

M&T Bank Stadium home to my Baltimore Ravens is my most frequently visited. Ravens fans are the best fans. My favorite feature is at night, the stadium lights create a beautiful purple skyline as you drive into the city of Baltimore. The new MetLife (Giants/Jets) is a favorite stadium simply because it’s not the old cement block it used to be. I had the pleasure of attending both the old and new stadiums against both teams. The experiences were like night and day. Last but certainly not least is Lincoln Financial Field home to the Philadelphia Eagles.

I went to college in Philly so if you hung out at a sports bar you had no choice but to become a fan of all of the hometown sports teams.

Philadelphia is a huge sports town. It was when I lived there that I started watching and attending NFL games.

One thing is for sure, Philly fans are truly one of a kind. They will cheer you when you succeed and boo you off the field if you mess up a play. It’s the fans that make each home game the most enjoyable.

Q. How does the NFL play a big part of your life to create these romance stories?

A. In addition to dating an NFL player, I ran charity football camps for at-risk-youth in Baltimore and we had a host of players attend.

It’s funny. You hear about all of the crazy professional athlete stories on blogs, radio and in magazines, and then one day you’re a part of it. The

perform up to expectations or demonstrate misconduct on the field, they could get benched, fined, or injured. That is illustrated in The Penalty. It represents the mishaps along the way, as with the ebbs and flows of romantic relationships. A big multimilliondollar contract is the end game for most players. In, The Contract, my protagonist wants the ultimate contract, marriage.

good, the sexy and the crazy. The stories I share in the series are a combination of fact and fiction.

Q. Who is your favorite sports hero?

A. Serena Williams. She’s got grit and so much tenacity and love for the game. She demands excellence and requires players to rise to the occasion to play against her. She is the GOAT. Watching her be great inspires me to fight for my goals.

Q. You have really catchy titles for the three books in the series “The Draft” “The Penalty” and “The Contract”.

What was creative thinking behind using these football terms as book subtitles?

A. When I started planning my project, I knew that each book would showcase not only a football season, but also represent a season of a relationship. The association to football are the stages that an athlete goes through during his NFL career. First comes Draft Day, the athlete is chosen by a team, just as my protagonist was chosen by the player in The Draft. Next, it’s performance time.

Players are put to the test. On any given Sunday, if they don’t

Q. Can you tell us your opinion on dating athletes?

A. The terrain is very different.

People say it’s just like dating any other man. It’s not. Only elite athletes make it into these leagues and the majority of them have been coddled and catered to their entire lives. So, the most important advice I could offer is to make sure that although he is the star on the field, you are co-stars in the relationship. It’s so important not to lose yourself by getting caught up in their fantasy life. It’s a slippery slope.

Keep the scales balanced and let them know that your emotional, physical, and mental needs are just as important as theirs.

Q. What’s the next big step for you for 2021?

A. November is national novel writing month so, instead of resting which I promised myself I would do, I’m going to break ground on a non-fiction book to compliment the Sidelined series. Know the Plays, or get Sidelined: in Life, Business and Relationships. The vision is to develop a playbook with winning strategies to help women achieve their goals.

Q. Where can the readers follow you?

A. Readers can follow me on: Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter @bwillbooks.

“ In the game of football, life and love, you must know the plays or get sidelined.”

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Deion “Shaq” Calhoun 22

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Q. Thanks for interviewing with us tell everyone who you are and what you do?

A. My name is Deion “Shaq” Calhoun. I’m a professional football player for the Cincinnati Bengals.

Q. How has the experience been with you playing for the Cincinnati Bengals of the National Football League?

A. It’s been great. I’m blessed to play my second year in the NFL. Q. Can you tell us how the transition been from being a college athlete to a professional athlete?

A. It was tough my first year. After I graduated college, December 14, 2018, I started training for the combine and Pro Day up until the draft. After Miami Dolphins picked me up I stayed there the rest of the season. With that being said it was a long year for me. I didn’t get a break until January 2020.

Q. Who is a sports icon that has influenced you the most?

A. Darnell Docket was a guy I looked up to because of his work ethic, determination, and most importantly the way he played the game.

Q. Do you have a special routine or superstition before you play a big game?

A. Actually I don’t. I just make sure I pray for both teams’ health and that God leads us to victory every game.

now after a good team win my teammates and I would hit a few spots and just hang out.

Q. What was one of your memorable experiences playing with the Miami Dolphins?

A. My most memorable experiences while playing with the Dolphins was when we beat the New England Patriots. We were the underdogs and ended up getting a win the last game of the season.

Q. Can you give any advice to someone who would want to be an athlete?

A. Although being an athlete comes with perks, in order to be a

successful athlete, you have to work hard for everything you want, have discipline, and stay faithful to the game.

Q. How has Covid changed or affected the way the team train for a game?

A. It has limited the amount of people who can train in a group. So instead of having an offense and defense lift everyone have to be split into three groups.

Q. Where can the readers follow you?

A. Instagram DLC61 Twitter SHQ205.

Q. What has Football taught you that carries over into the other areas in your life?

A. Football has taught me to be responsible and accountable in everything I do. Those two things alone help me become a better father.

Q. Tell us one thing you always do after a good game?

A. This year has made things a little different due to Covid. Therefore,

“ Football has taught me to be responsible and accountable in everything I do.”

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“ Winning two championships is definitely a huge accomplishment but I think that’s everyone’s goal once you actually make it into the NBA,...”

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Josh Powell WIB Magazine

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us tell everyone who you are and where you’re from?

A. My name is Josh Powell, 2x NBA Champion with the Los Angeles Lakers, Co-Captain forBIG3’s Killer 3s and co-creator of CheMinistry, a relationship platform. I’m also an entrepreneur, philanthropist and my all-time favorite, a Father.

Q. How was your experience with the Lakers?

A. My basketball career with the Los Angeles Lakers was nothing shy of amazing, man! I experienced tremendous growth both as a man and a player as I was a part of an organization that demanded a higher standard of greatness all around. I was inspired to elevate my game and learn from some of the best to do it.

I mean when you have a coach like Phil Jackson and a superior staff, and then the icing on the cake, the caliber of players on the roster, you couldn’t help but be great and strive to be better every single day. The team was stacked… from Derek fisher to Kobe Bryant, from Pau Gasol to Lamar Odom... it was an extraordinary team.

Q. Let’s talk about the “Big 3’s Killer 3’s” what’s the meaning behind that and how was it being the co-captain?

A. I’m currently the co-captain for BIG3’s Killer 3s (3-on-3 pro basketball league founded by Ice Cube featuring All-Stars, Hall of Famers and World Champions.)

I’ve truly enjoyed the league and competition and it’s great catching up with past teammates and player opponents as we’ve all retired from the NBA. Q. What made you retire from the NBA? A. I made the difficult decision to retire from basketball because I wanted to spend more time with my children. I didn’t want to miss out on the opportunity to nurture and build relationships with them. During the course of my career and especially toward the end, I spent most of my time building with them from an iPhone and I knew I had to make a change.

Q. Can you give some advice to someone who would want to play basketball?

A. My advice to anyone who wants to play professional basketball is consistency… stay the course.

Don’t compare yourself or your journey to anyone because that’s the quickest way to be deterred.

Focus on your journey and remain steadfast to achieving your goal.

Q. With social distancing being the normal; what’s the next big step for you?

A. I find true joy in serving the community in various capacities depending on the need. I have a genuine passion to give back to those who are less fortunate or suffer need.

Q. Tell us one of your biggest accomplishments being in the NBA? A. One of my biggest accomplishments was making it into the NBA. This is the pinnacle of success for a lot of guys and few actually make it this far. Knowing that I put in the work and achieved my goals is priceless. I can pass on the hard work and dedication to my children because I actually made it. Winning two championships is definitely a huge accomplishment but I think that’s everyone’s goal once you actually make it into the NBA, but none of it would be possible if I didn’t get there first.

Q. If you could describe this year of basketball what would it be?

A. The NBA season during the pandemic was some of the best basketball I’ve seen this year. I think because of the pandemic and social distancing rules in place, the players only had one focus and that was basketball.

Everyone was competing with a level of intensity at an all-time high. It was great to watch.

Q. Are you working on any new projects for 2021?

A. I’m currently working on several new projects that I’m very proud of. One in particular, I’m the co-creator of CheMinistry, a relationship platform and we’re working on a few different things that we’ll be sharing with everyone real soon. I also want to share my T- Shirt line “T-Shirt Shawdy” where you find words of affirmation for both men and women.

Q. Where can the readers follow you?

A. FOLLOW Me on : Twitter @JP21Reasons Instagram @Josh21Powell FOLLOW CheMinistry @ CheMinistryLive FOLLOW T-Shirt Shawdy @ Tshirtshawdy

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Bridging The Gap Golf,

LLC Youth Swing Clinic

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Q. Thanks for interviewing with us tell everyone about BTG Swing Clinic?

A. As a native Virginian, Steven Johnson, Sr. founded Bridging the Gap (BTG) Golf company to bring golf to the youth in his community.

While playing golf professionally was never a goal of Steven’s, helping and giving back to the youth is a passion of his. Innovation, Integrity, and respect are the three things Mr. Johnson learned while on the golf course. He wants to help instill those things into the youth of today.

BTG is all about bringing diversity to the game of golf. Bridging The Gap (BTG) swing clinics are designed to comfortably introduce a novel player to the basic fundamentals and principles of the game. Players learn the proper way to grip and swing a golf club and how to tee-off.

We also have 6 and 8-week course curriculums. They are being adopted by a few local County Parks and Recreation Departments in the state of Virginia. We are looking forward to expanding this program.

Q. How is your business initiative received by golf courses/golf sanctioning bodies?

A. There is a lot of help and resources from many of the staff at courses where I’ve been fortunate to play. across the country, most golfers are very welcoming to new players to the sport.

Q. Who is your Golf Idol?

A. Phil Mickelson. Phil has the best short game in golf, he’s automatic around the green.

Q. What is the journey to becoming a great golfer?

A. The journey of golf is very much like the journey of life.

Tons of practice and tons of stretching. Consistency is the key. Golf is a sport where you’re always thinking. Basically, find your swing, perfect it, and make it work. As we all know, in life, you have to find your niche.

Q. Can you tell us some things the community can do to assist initiative?

A. Introduce your kids to something different. With the pandemic at the top of everyone’s minds right now, golf is safe and a great way to stay healthy, plus it’s fun.

Q. What kind of encouragement can you give to a non-golfer to join the “BTG” Program?

A. BTG programs are designed for all levels of golfers. It introduces the “newborns” in a comfortable way and sharpens the skills of an intermediate or advanced-level golfer. BTG is bringing golf to more communities of color that have not been exposed in the sport. With BTG, they will be introduced in a way where they feel like they belong on the course. BTG is here to not only teach aspiring golfers how to play but the etiquette of the game as well helps build social skills. The golf course is where the business deals are made, and we have lots of creative ways to include more BIPOC and women.

Q. Any current sponsors (or ideal sponsors/partnerships) for your initiative and how have they helped?

A. We have received support from the entertainment and hospitality industries as well as sports. We also are sponsored by a locallyowned and black-operated pizza restaurant called Marco’s Pizza that donates to our youth swing clinics. There are a number of other companies I’d love for us to partner with - it’s all in the works.

Q. Can you tell us some of your goal/targets to gauge success?

A. Our ultimate goal would be to increase the number of BIPOC in

“ We want to break barriers and share these unique opportunities, especially for young people. “

our local communities to the sport.

We want to break barriers and share these unique opportunities, especially for young people.

There are tons of underused golf scholarships every year, especially for girls. We overlook the sport because we don’t have much representation on the course, but we want to change the stigma of it being a predominantly white sport because that doesn’t have to be true.

Q. With everything going on this year what has been the biggest challenge for BTG? A. Our biggest challenge was finding a way to have events during the pandemic. COVID-19 basically shut the entire operation down. It gave us some time to build our plan even further than what we anticipated. Golf is one of the popular sports that has continued despite the pandemic. Though were all uncertain about the future, we have put precautions in place during our events to keep everyone safe on the course. We were all scared not knowing what to expect and what precautions needed to be taken.

But we are in full stride and back in business now.

Q. Where can the readers follow you?

A. You can find us on: Facebook at “Bridging the Gap Golf” and on Instagram @BTG.Golf and visit us on: www.btggolf.com

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“ My mom inspired me the most because she was so good at the sport and had me

Tavin Cummings

around it majority of my life. “

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Q. Thanks for interviewing with us tell everyone who you are and what you do?

A. Hello thanks for allowing this opportunity to be chosen, my name is Tavin Cummings born and raised in Memphis TN. I’m a professional basketball player overseas in Mogilev, Belarus.

Q. What motivated you to be a basketball player?

A. My motivation to be a basketball player came from my family. My mom inspired me the most because she was so good at the sport and had me around it majority of my life.

When I began to take it seriously it came natural to me.

Q. How has your transition been from being a college athlete to a professional athlete in another country?

A. The transition from a college athlete to a professional athlete wasn’t very difficult for me when it comes to practicing and surviving on my own in a different country. At first, it was a little difficult communicating and reading a new language but, I’ve been able to adapt socially on and off the court.

Q. Who is your favorite sports hero?

A. I would have to say my favorite sports hero is my cousin Bam Campbell. He is my favorite because growing up in Memphis can be rough and you literally have to be a strong person to maintain and focus to have a great future. I watched him do that and make it to the highest level of basketball and become successful.

Q. Tell us about the BC Borisfen Organization and the motivation behind it?

A. BC Borisfen is a great organization and very family oriented. They make sure I have what I need and that I’m ok emotionally, physically and as well as mentally. They show their appreciation for the players as well as the fans. They are extremely passionate about the game and the legacy that will carry on. That’s what keeps me motivated.

Q. What has been one of your biggest accomplishments?

A. My biggest accomplishment thus far is becoming a professional athlete playing ball overseas. This is an opportunity I will not take for granted.

Q. How do you deal with the pressure of having to play in front of a crowd?

A. Playing in front of a crowd is no pressure at all. My energy goes through the roof when it’s a big crowd. Their presence and energy makes me go even harder.

Q. If you could describe this year of basketball what would it be?

A. Very motivational and joyful. I’m really thankful for this opportunity to be playing especially with the pandemic still being relevant.

Q. Where do you see yourself in the next 3 years?

A. In three years, I see myself playing for a larger organization and having my brand/ foundation at a higher level of successfulness.

Q. Where can the readers follow you?

A. Everyone can keep up with me on IG: @__taybanga2a also my foundation page is @ a2athefoundation. Facebook: Tavin Cummings.

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Giovonni Thompson 30

WIB Magazine

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us tell everyone who you are and where you’re from?

A. My name is Giovonni, I’m a mother and CEO. I was born in France and grew up mostly in NJ. Q. Who is your favorite sports hero?

A. My favorite hero would have to be Michael Jordan. I think he is the greatest to ever to do it; however, when I was young, I loved Flo Jo and Wilma Rudolph...both track and field phenoms.

Q. What inspired you to want to own your own professional basketball team?

A. I was inspired by the challenge.

When presented with the idea from my then partner, I immediately saw the version for it...So I went for it.

Q. Tell us about “Camden Monarchs” and the motivation behind it?

A. The Camden Monarchs is a men’s pro basketball team in Camden, NJ.

I was presented with the idea from my partner at the time to get the franchise. The motivation of taking it to Camden was because it is a huge basketball town and I have deep roots there with my family. I thought it would be a great addition to the current revitalization of the city.

Q. Congratulations on being the youngest African American woman to own a professional basketball team how does it feel?

A. To be honest, I don’t even think about it, or the title. I still have so much more work to do for the city and the organization. I’m just grateful to God for allowing me to achieve it.

Q. Being in the entertainment industry for so many years how did that prepare you for this new role?

A. The entertainment industry prepared me because like sports, it’s a male dominated industry. It taught me how to deal with men and how to navigate in different circles of influence.

Q. Are there any new skills or hobbies you picked up since the start of the pandemic?

A. I really spent a lot of my time researching and reading.

Q. Tell us about the Gio Global Sports Agency and how it got started?

A. I decided to start the Sports Agency when I made the transition from music to sports. It’s very much still a work in progress.

Q. Is there any advice you can give to others that want to be into entertainment and sports?

A. Do your research and get a mentor!

Q. What is one fun fact about yourself?

A. Fun fact is I love to cook and have aspirations of owning a restaurant or food truck.

Q. Where can the readers follow you?

A. The readers can follow me at @ giosoglobal on IG and follow my team page at @camdenmonarchs.

“ I was presented with the idea from my partner at the time to get the franchise. The motivation of taking it to Camden was because it is a huge basketball town and I have deep roots there with my family. “

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Chris Helwick

“ There is no achievement without perseverance. Achievement and perseverance are two-sides of the same coin, so you can’t separate them. “

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years ago to show the power and importance of what I’d learned while I was away.

Q. Tell us the why behind pursuing athletics, and expert advice on different aspects of running as a decathlete?

Q. It’s a pleasure to interview with you can you tell everyone who you are and what you do?

A. My name is Chris Helwick and I’m a 35-year-old decathlete from Fort Collins, CO. For those who don’t know what a decathlon is, it’s essentially ten track and field events rolled into one. It happens over the course of two days – five events each day – and always in the same order. It’s a ton of work to train for and compete in decathlons, but in an odd way, the joy is in the struggle. I’m also in my second career as a decathlete. My first career ended in 2012, but in 2016 I had an epiphany that changed my entire view of sports and my own career. I decided I needed to come back to the event I once walked away from to demonstrate how the whole thing could be done better.

So that’s what I’m doing now, and that’s why I call myself a “born-again athlete.”

Q. You have been retired for the last 6 years what made you want to come back?

A. When I first retired from the decathlon in 2012, my relationship with athletics had gone sour. I hadn’t performed well during the several years leading up to my retirement, and the longer I stagnated, the more I obsessed over my achievements (or lack thereof). This put me in a downward mental spiral that eventually ended in a massive burnout. So,

by 2012, I knew it was time to move on from athletics for my own mental well-being. Once my athletic career was over my perspective on sports, and exercise in general, began to change. I remained active in retirement, playing all kinds of sports and exercising regularly, but something was different.

There were no expectations hanging over my head. I had no insecurities about what I was doing. I let go of a lot of mental and physical tension that used to plague me during my professional career. I felt light and free again, like a kid playing at recess.

Thankfully, I was able to reconnect with my love of athletics during this time, and it was the very first step on my path back to the decathlon. By the fall of 2016— four years after my retirement—I was spending a lot of time thinking about the significance of this rekindled love of athletics and how it had changed me. I realized that by nurturing this love and allowing it to grow I had unlocked new levels of athletic potential. In 2016, I knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that I had become the best athlete I’d ever been, and, if I put my mind to it, I could be the best decathlete I’d ever been as well. It was imperative for me to come back to the sport I’d left six

A. There are lots of good reasons to pursue athletics, but here’s the best one: because we are driven to be athletic.

The reason sports and athletics are so valuable is that they provide an outlet for something that stirs inside many of us.

We might call this stirring our innate athleticism—or that part of us that wants to move in graceful, powerful, and precise ways. People first invented sports so that those who were athletically inclined could express themselves in that way.

Like a canvas on which a painter expresses herself artistically, sports are canvases on which we express ourselves athletically.

And if you realize that sports are merely canvases on which we create and express ourselves, then you also understand the greatest Why of all athletic pursuits.

Q. After finishing fifth at the U.S. Olympic trails what made you retire?

A. The most difficult aspect of my career from 2009 to 2012 was my lack of improvement.

I was still performing at a high level, but I wasn’t experiencing the sort of annual progress I’d become accustomed to in college. A stalling of progress— or a performance plateau—is what drives many athletes to the brink, and I was no different. The longer I stalled out, the more I got down on myself. After the 2011 season, I got so frustrated that I almost quit. I had had an especially bad year and I remember thinking to myself at the end of it, “why do I keep doing this to myself?” I was working my butt off but wasn’t

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seeing much of a return for the effort.

I had to question whether it was the right move to keep training and competing for another year.

After having a heart-to-heart with myself, I decided I didn’t want to end my career with such a bad taste in my mouth. I knew 2012 would be my final year of competing no matter what, so I committed to improving my attitude, letting go of some of the pressure I was putting on myself to perform, and finishing my career in a way that I could be proud of. I still didn’t have a banner year, but my attitude and mindset were much healthier. I was glad my career was over at that point, but the way I approached my final season gave me some peace of mind as I moved onto that next phase of my life.

Q. With social distancing being the new normal; what’s the next big step for you?

A. Fortunately, social distancing and mask wearing haven’t disrupted my process too much. Obviously the 2020 season getting cancelled was a bit of a shock, but as of now the 2021 Olympic Trials and Olympic Games are still on. I’m in an early season training phase right now, so it’s all training and no competing for the next several months. But come February I’ll start running some indoor meets, and then the real fun will begin next April when I’ll compete in my first of three decathlons in 2021.

Q. What are some things or hobbies you picked up while you were retired?

A. When I finally retired from the decathlon, I was blown away at how many other things besides athletics I was interested in. I started exploring nature in a big way through walking, hiking and paddle boarding. These activities provided me with most of the daily activity I still craved. I found myself reading up on subjects I never knew I was interested in like philosophy and religion. I also had a new day job which quickly became a lifestyle: I started a digital advertising

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company called InSpot Media with a former college teammate.

Q. I know you traveled a lot of places what has been your most memorable place?

A. I’ve traveled to nearly 30 countries, but the one that has had the most lasting impact was the Dominican Republic. In 2008 I travel the DR for a regional championship meet between South, Central and North America.

On the long bus ride from the airport to our hotel in the capital of Santo Domingo, we drove through miles upon miles of the most impoverished areas I’d ever seen with my own two eyes. I’m sure I’d seen greater levels of poverty in movies or photos, but it’s a much more affecting experience

to see it up-close and in-person.

My time in the DR continues to remind me of what a blessing and a privilege it is to live in a place like the US. Q. What has been the biggest challenge you have had?

A. I have competed in a number of international competitions throughout my life and I can tell you that one of the biggest challenges within these multiday overseas events is getting proper sleep. When you travel to a foreign country for a track meet, you usually stay in austere accommodations, like dorm rooms. The space is often noisy and the beds uncomfortable. You

Q. Where can the readers follow you?

A. The best way to keep up with me is through my website at chrishelwick. com. I post a monthly blog that contains photos, videos, and written sentences portraying the life of an Olympic decathlete. I can also be found on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.

already have nerves and anxiety about the competition itself, so finding a way to relax and get proper rest in this sort of environment can be especially challenging.

Q. Can you give us something inspirational and educational about the importance of perseverance in achieving your goals?

A. Firstly, there is no achievement without perseverance. Achievement and perseverance are two-sides of the same coin, so you can’t separate them. To truly achieve something, you have to have some skin in the game. You need a struggle, an obstacle, a little push-back, so that you feel responsible for what you’ve gained. That’s what achievement fundamentally is – a sense of responsibility for a desirable outcome. So that’s #1: if you expect to accomplish anything, and I mean anything, you have to persevere through something. But then we have to ask, what does it mean to persevere in the pursuit of a goal?

Perseverance is the willingness to take an indirect path to your goals.

Persevering is the same as accepting you do not have the answer to your question, yet you are resolved in your quest to find your answer. It’s being willing to look behind door #1, door #2, door #3, and door #500 when looking for what you want.

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Kelsey Nicole Nelson Q. Thanks for interviewing with us tell everyone who you are and where you’re from?

A. First off, thank you so much for having me. It’s a true honor and privilege to interview with you and I appreciate you giving me the platform to share my story.

To briefly introduce myself, my name is Kelsey Nicole Nelson and I am an award-winning sports/ entertainment reporter based in the DMV area. Most recently I joined the Washington Football Team’s broadcast team as the host of “The Fit” and “The Life” for the team’s Unfiltered series and I am the host of “Washington Unfiltered” on NBC Sports Washington. I also work as a sideline reporter for the Big East Digital Network (BEDN) where I cover Georgetown women’s basketball. In addition to the above responsibilities I also work as the sideline reporter for DMVstream. com where I cover Georgetown University football and I work as the host/executive producer of the award-winning sports talk radio show podcast “Listen In With KNN” presented by FOX Sports Radio, probably the position I am most known for. For FOX Sports Radio, I also cover all the major and professional sports teams in the Greater Washington Metropolitan Area. I also work with the Minor Football League (MFL) as the co-host of “Inside the MFL” on DC Radio apart of the DC Office of Cable Television, Film, Music and Entertainment. I also work as an instructor at Doral College where I co-teach an “Intro to Radio and Pod casting” course alongside Larry “The Amigo” Milian. The students also run SLAM Radio on Sirius XM. Ch. 145, which is the first satellite station run by high school students.

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“ I am born and bred in the DMV and a graduate of the Philip H. Merrill College of Journalism at the University of Maryland – College Park and Georgetown University.”

I sit on the Board of the Most Valuable Kids DC nonprofit organization and serve as the co-chair of the mentorship committee for the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) Sports Task Force.

The audio version of the podcast is available on ITUNES, Google Play & Spotify. The livestream version of the show can be accessed on my YouTube channel, my Facebook pages or Twitter.

I am born and bred in the DMV and a graduate of the Philip H. Merrill College of Journalism at the University of Maryland – College Park and Georgetown University.

Q. What or Who inspired you to be the woman you are today?

Q. Tell us your experience being on “KNN” sports radio?

A. As the host and executive producer of the award-winning podcast “Listen In With KNN” presented by FOX Sports Radio 1340 AM and 96.9 FM WHAP it’s been a thrill to see the show continue to grow! It’s mind blowing to me that the show I started in 2017 has grown into its own brand. Each week, I release a podcast version of the show with a special guest from the sports world! I also, do two livestream shows for my listening audience every Thursday at 6 p.m. ET and every Saturday at 2 p.m. ET where I welcome some of the biggest names in sports both past and present. For the livestream shows, it’s been pretty cool to have fans intact with the show in real-time and get a chance to directly ask questions and comment on the show. It serves the shows purpose as the show is meant to be a conversation between me and a guest where the audience is in essence eavesdropping on the conversation and chiming in.

The show caters to the avid sports fans and seeks to connect current events coupled with the latest happenings in the sports world.

On the #ListenInWithKNN show special guests to name a few have included Enes Kanter, Kurt Angle, Donovan McNabb, Mayor Glenn Jacobs (Kane), Metta World Peace, Jason “The Jet” Terry, Lisa Marie Varon, Jonathan Isaac and Shawn Marion to name a few.

Other special guests that have joined the podcast version of the show include but are not limited to Gov. Jesse Ventura, LaVar Ball, Mike Hill, Maureen McCormick, Gorgui Dieng, Diamond “Dallas” Page, Kimberly Brown, Rep. Mark Walker, and Santia Deck.

A. I am the woman I am today because of my parents. They sacrificed so much so I could have the opportunity to work towards my dreams. My parents moved to Maryland from Mississippi to ensure I had access to a quality education. They uprooted their lives to be able to be the best providers for me. My parents worked endlessly to make sure I never had to go hungry and made sure that I was always active and involved. From my parents I also learned the value of giving back and living for more than just yourself. Growing up they were always involved in the community a value that’s very near and dear to my heart today grew from witnessing them give their all to improving the lives of others around them.

From my parents I learned the value of hard work. My parents always worked hard so they could provide for me and my little sister.

From a young age, being Black and proud was instilled into me.

They taught me to love myself and what it meant to be a strong Black woman. They taught me that just because I didn’t see someone that looked like me in a position or career that it didn’t mean that I couldn’t or wouldn’t be there. They taught me that I’d just have to be a trailblazer that breaks down barriers and sometimes possibly be the first but never the last. I learned from them to be comfortable in any situation and that I always belong in the room.

My parents taught me the value of self-worth and self-respect. They inspire me every day to be the best

version of me. It’s why I’m very blessed to have them both still involved in my life. Growing up, I was always thankful to always be able to look in the stands and or auditorium to see my parents cheering me on. My parents also never missed a game or awards ceremony. My inspiration begins with my parents, but it doesn’t end there. Many caring adults and mentors helped to shape me into the woman I am today. I look back and thank my teachers, my camp counselors, my afternoon instructors, my coaches and others who always pushed me beyond what I thought was my limits.

Q. I see you are doing some projects with the Washington Football team can you give us more details?

A. I’d be glad to share details of the work I’m doing with my hometown team, the Washington Football team. For the Washington Football Team, I was hired as part of their digital expansion.

For the Washington Football Team, I host two shows under the “Unfiltered” Series umbrella. The shows showcase the lighter side of the game through the lens of pop culture. On ‘The Life” I dive into the latest trending topics, and go in-depth into players’ lives off the field discussing their hobbies, interests, and musical tastes.

On “The Life” I co-host the show with former Washington Team player and media personality Fred Smoot. On “The Fit” each week I go inside players’ wardrobes, review sneaker drops, debut clothing line collaborations and cover new Washington Football Team gear. On “The Fit” we’ve also been highlighting custom cleat designers that work with some of the top players in the NFL. Each weekly for both shows, I’m joined by various members of the team. I also host “Washington Unfiltered” which airs every Saturday morning at 9:30 a.m. ET on NBC Sports Washington. This

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be introduced to the sports of NASCAR through the NASCAR Diversity Internship.

I had the chance to move to Charlotte to work in NASCAR’s offices and while I was there, I had the chance to attend my first NASCAR race and appear on NASCAR Sirius XM Radio.

Working with NASCAR I was introduced to the business side of sports as I worked in their integrated marketing communications department. I worked to book NASCAR drivers on morning and afternoon radio shows as well as brainstorming ways to market the sport to diverse audiences.

Getting a chance to work for NASCAR and meeting the fans helped to break down my own biases I had of the sport prior.

I worked with great colleagues and got to get a wide variety of experience working in a variety of departments and got to be the lead intern in the Charlotte office where I was able to plan lunch and learns and create unique experiences for my co-workers.

NASACR was one of my most valuable experiences and it’s one I wouldn’t trade for the world. To this day, I am thankful to be a diverse voice that can speak to the sport of NASCAR. Q. What has been one of your biggest accomplishments you have had? show recaps all the “Unfiltered” series content weekly from the Washington Football team. Currently, this show recaps the following shows from the week: “The Fit,” “The Life,” “The Game,” “The Legacy,” and “The Beat”.

as each week I work with a great team tasked at brining Washington Football fans content in a unique way to keep them connected with the team, especially in the current COVID-19 environment.

I’ve also had the chance to make guest appearances on “Washington Football Today,” with Julie

Q. How was your experience working with NASCAR?

Donaldson. It’s been a joy working each day with #WashigntonFootball 38

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A. Working with NASCAR was one of the most rewarding and unique experiences of my life. I was glad to

A. It’s truly hard to pick just one accomplishment as I’ve been very blessed and fortunate to have received various awards for my work, awards that each have a very special unique meaning to me. If I did have to pick one, I’d probably have to say winning the “DMV Sports Media Person of the Year” award last year. For one, I found out I was awarded this award during Super Bowl LIV. It was a shock!

There’s nothing like getting love from your hometown. The Washington, D.C. area means so much to me since it shaped all my life experiences and helped me to become the person I am today. D.C. is home to so many legends in sports media. It was an honor to even be considered amongst the greats both past and present. They truly are icons that paved the way. So, to know that the people in my area, the people who truly know me and have seen my career grow since the beginning support and like my work, that means the world to me. I work hard day in and day out to ensure that I continue to live up to the distinguished honor of the award.

Q. Can you tell us your biggest challenge you have had?

A. The biggest challenge, that’s a great question! It’s hard to pinpoint one, but I’ll say the biggest challenge I face and still face is being overlooked and finding the right opportunity that will give you the opportunity. This ongoing challenge is one I’m sure than many other journalists face, especially other journalists of Color.

Constantly, I’m told I don’t have enough experience despite being in this industry for a decade, eight years as a professional and having experience on a variety of mediums including television, print and radio it hasn’t been enough. The “experience” has been used as rationale by some in the industry as a way to “justify” paying me less than my colleagues or to not have pay at all. It’s a grind to keep going after being constantly told no, for the same reasons. It has just meant that as a freelance reporter I’m working to prove myself every day.

But, all the challenges and obstacles further fuel and motivate me to push harder, to grind harder, and hustle harder every day. As a Black woman working in sports media, I’m constantly reminded I’m a minority in the room as both a female and an African American.

I think of the trailblazers that came before me and I think of the path I hope

to blaze for those coming behind me. The challenges I face have toughened me to be the reporter I am today.

Q. Where do you see yourself in the next 3 years?

A. This is a question I’m constantly thinking about in my everyday work as I’m always planning my next step and for the future. In the next three years, I hope for my brand to have grown and for KNN to be a national and international brand. My goal within the next three years is to continue to grow within my current roles as both a member of the broadcast team for the Washington Football team and as a sideline reporter for the Big East Digital Network. I also hope to expand my show “Listen In With KNN” onto the national airwaves and for the show to become a daily syndicated show.

I’d also love in three years to grow within the DMV area as one of the most trusted sources for sports coverage continuing to cover all the teams as a freelancer for the major print, television and radio networks in the area. In terms of expanding my roles, I hope to get a chance to further work with the professional sports teams in Washington, D.C. My ultimate goal is to become a household name. I also have dreams of covering the Olympics in the short term. Working hard each day to make these dreams realities.

Outside of my media work, I also have the goal of making my community action project “Books Breaking Borders: Books to End Educational Bankruptcy” into an official nonprofit that I plan to expand beyond the DMV area to other states across the country helping to address and hopefully end childhood illiteracy rates in marginalized communities.

Q. Are you working on any new projects?

A. Yes, I am in the works of launching a new show, called “Beyond Sports with KNN” that will soon launch on a new network that I can’t disclose just yet! But if readers follow me on social media, they will get exclusive details on when it launches.

I’ll also be launching a new television show, “The Sports Sound of the District and Beyond.”

This energetic new show will turn the volume up on the sports and entertainment world. My guests will be invited to different locations like the sports lounge where I will share my thoughts on any and all things sports. I will also discuss the latest things trending on Twitter and social media. I will get to know my guests over good food & drinks and, hopefully, get the 411. I will also put them to the test as I enter into my Q&A trivia session to challenge guest’s health & fitness. It’s a show you won’t want to miss.

I also will soon be releasing my “Listen In With KNN” guest list that will highlight the celebrity guests joining me for the rest of the year that can be found here. I am also looking forward to getting on the sidelines again for college sports coverage. So basically, lots in store for the rest of 2020 and beyond! Be sure to stay tuned.

Q. Tell the readers where they can follow you?

A. People can follow me on social media or my website to follow my work.

Facebook: Kelsey Nicole Nelson Twitter: @TheRealKnelson Instagram: @TheRealKnelson Website: www.KelseyNicoleNelson.com YouTube: Kelsey Nelson

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Garrick Jones 40

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Q. Thanks for interviewing with us can you tell everyone who you are and what you do?

A. I am currently President of the Huddle Up Foundation of Houston, which is a nonprofit organization created by former NFL athletes working in around the communities we live and serve. I am responsible for developing and the implementation of HUFOH athlete initiatives across the country as well as overseeing the education and exposure of criminal/social justice reform along with community/ economic development in Houston and surrounding areas!

I have more than 20 years of experience in managing businesses, delivering real-time solutions, and groundbreaking expertise in the developmental sports space, including financial literacy, entrepreneurship with an emphasis on organic branding. Before my elected position with HUFOH, I CoFounded the States Developmental Football League in which I serve as commissioner. My journey in business and sports is featured in several magazines and journals throughout the years. The most notable is my then and now feature in Kiplinger regarding the impact on my professional football career on the athletes I have exposed to financial literacy, business, athlete branding and finally leveraging their followings while cultivating an entrepreneurship mindset.

I’ve played five seasons in the National Football League, as well as five seasons in the Canadian Football League before I assumed the role of President. The highlight of my playing career would have to be signing my first NFL contract after forgoing my senior season at Arkansas State University due to personal issues. I currently sit on the Board of Directors for the NFLPA Houston Chapter and the Advisory Board for IMPACT Sports LLC, a company focused on the development of concussion reducing helmets for all athletes. I also facilitate Diversity and Inclusion webinar workshops on a monthly basis within the Equilibria in Sports platform.

“ You need to become a student of the game and position you are playing.

It has to be part of your life like sleeping and eating. It has to be second nature! “

Q. What has been your biggest accomplishment you have had in life?

A. Making it to the NFL as an undrafted free agent. https://www.espn.com/nfl/ story?id=1846461&src=desktop Q. Can you tell us your biggest challenges you have had?

A. Learning how to truly navigate life after professional sports.

Q. Tell us about your experience with the Houston Texans?

A. My experiences were great while with the Texans. The city embraced my family and I as their own which helped make the decision to stay here permanently a no brainer.

Q. Who is your favorite sports hero?

A. My brothers Damion and Kevin.

I wanted to be like them because they were my older brothers and were the most amazing athletes I had ever seen.

Q. I also see that you’re the president of “The Huddle Up Foundation of Houston” can you tell us more about the foundation?

A. The foundation is made up of former NFL players that serve various communities with their own impactful Initiatives. We are trying to bridge the gap between the players and the friends, family, and fans within the communities in order to make a stronger social impact on society.

Q. Tell us about your States Developmental Football league you have?

A. It’s primarily a league that deals with more of the facets regarding life skills and true off the field development. I speak on it indepth in the interview above.

Q. Are you working on any new projects or events for 2021?

A. My main focus for 2021 is to become a general manager in the NFL preferably the Houston Texans but will entertain the options of working with other teams. https://www.change.org/p/ houston-texans-a-change-isneeded Q. Can you give any tips for others that wants to be an athlete?

A. You have to work at your craft.

You need to become a student of the game and position you are playing. It has to be part of your life like sleeping and eating. It has to be second nature!

Q. Where can the readers follow you?

A. IG: officiallygarrickjones LinkedIn & Twitter: commissionergj

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Jack Tocho

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us tell everyone who you are and where you’re from?

Q. What advice can you give someone that wants to play Football?

A. My name is Jack Tocho. Born in Gastonia, NC, raised in Charlotte, NC.

A. Run track first and be patient along the journey. Remain consistent in doing your part the right way and good things will happen.

Q. What made you want to play football?

A. My dad was an avid football watcher & I wanted to do something that made him as excited as he was while watching football.

Q. Who is your favorite sports hero?

A. Michael Jordan. He was born in North Carolina and he changed the whole definition of what it means to be a professional athlete.

Q. Can you tell us one of your biggest accomplishments you have had playing football?

Q. Tell us about “After 10” and the motivation behind it A. After 10 is a buy/sell sneaker company where I offer the most sought out sneakers and clothes on the market. I always have and will love shoes, and I believe that starting a business was the best way to combine my passion and my career together.

Q. Where can the readers follow you?

A. Instagram: aftr10.

A. Getting drafted into the NFL. Q. Tell us your biggest challenges playing football for the Vikings?

A. Learning a new position that I never played until I turned pro.

Q. What has football taught you that carries over into the other areas of your life?

A. Attention to detail is very critical.

Q. Are there any new skills or hobbies you picked up since the start of the pandemic?

A. I’ve read a lot more books than I normally have.

“ Learning a new position that I never played until I turned pro.”

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Jeremy Mincey 44

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Q. Thanks for interviewing with us tell everyone who you are and where you’re from?

A. I’m from Statesboro Georgia Originally but I was in Jacksonville Florida the last 15 years of my life.

Q. How did you get into playing football?

A. A bet with my cousin Amos. I originally thought football was stupid until I came out My junior year of high school.

Q. Out of all the football teams you played for which one was your most memorable one?

A. The Dallas Cowboys. I would honestly say the Broncos with our SuperBowl run in 2013 but I spent 7 years with the Jaguars so it’s a lot easier to remember moments from the time spent. I’m grateful for the opportunity to play for them all.

Q. What made you retire and what’s the next big move for you?

A. Too many Concussions, Headaches, moving, and Surgeries. 10 years was more than enough.

It was time. Currently I own a Clothing Line KumfeeKush™️ With my Wife Markevia, Record/ Production Company (Mr. Mince Productions), Men Moving Positive LLC Real estate and Philanthropy.

Q. Tell me one of the biggest challenges you had playing football?

A. Well honestly, my Path to 10 years Pro was tough. I was Cut 4 different times in my career but ended up a formidable player in the end. I never gave up. It paid off.

Q. I know you do a lot for the community do you have any new events coming up?

A. Right now I’m focused on my Daughter Jermani’s new project “Friend Girl Nation”. I think she will impact our youth with the proper guidance.

I have a lot in the works.

Q. With social distancing being the new normal; what’s the next big step for you?

A. Creating a Digital Platform Network from home.

It’s a new world Evolving every day. I’m just trying to create something great to give me and my company a competitive edge.

Q. What’s some words of inspiration you can provide to people that want to play football?

A. Look inside yourself, know your expectations, and push yourself beyond them. You can be as great as you want to be. Discipline, Determination, and Work ethic always wins in life. Not just the game of football.

Q. Can you tell us what are some of you most favorite accomplishments?

A. Winning a State Championship, National Championship, Playing in The Super Bowl, Dallas Cowboy Defensive MVP 2014 and Dropping a Classic record with the Legendary Scarface as an artist. It’s only up from here.

Q. Where can the readers follow you?

A. You can follow me on Instagram @mrmince92 or @mrminceceo or my production companies page @ mrminceproductions.

“ Look inside yourself, know your expectations, and push yourself beyond them. “ WIB Magazine 45

“ Basketball gave me the confidence that I could push past my limits.

And god gave me the faith of a mustard seed that I’ll succeed at whatever I put my mind too.”

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Deshaune Green

WIB Magazine

Q. Thanks for interviewing with us tell us who you are and where you’re from?

A. My name is Deshaune Green & I am from Portsmouth, Va. Q. Who is your sports hero?

A. My Favorite sports hero is Lebron James because of what he stands for. His great philanthropy efforts to help others and being a great father is what motivates me to do the same thing. He is a true champion on and off the court. I respect that a lot.

Q. What or Who inspired you to want to play basketball?

A. My Grandmother and older cousin that I grew up with inspired me to play basketball. When my grandmother died in 2007, is what kept me motivated to pursue basketball at the next level.

Q. Tell us about “The Green Hope Foundation” and the motivation behind it?

A. The Green-Hope Foundation, Inc is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization established in 2018 to facilitate positive youth development through community outreach and programs that emphasize education, athletics, and recreational activities.

Growing up in the projects, in an environment lacking resources to become successful efficiently in what motivated me to found Green-Hope.

I always wanted to give back when I got to a certain level in my life and use my basketball platform to help others progress efficiently. I want children to know that they always

have options and that their current circumstance is not their final destination.

Q. How was your experience being a Pro basketball player in ABA/PBL? A. My experience playing professional basketball has been amazing. I thank God every day for it. Traveling the world, meeting new people, building relationships and creating resources off the court is what it’s all about; All while getting paid. What more can you ask for?

My son watching me play and witness me winning championships has to be the most exciting part about it.

Q. What advice can you give to someone who wants to play basketball?

A. The most transparent advice I can give someone is “If you are going to play the sport or any sport rather. Do not “BS” with it. Put in the Hard Work, be dedicated to your craft, fight through adversity because it is inevitable to come.”

“Go Hard or Go Home” because the last thing you want to do is waste anyone’s time and your parents hard earned money.

Q. With everything that’s been going on this year did it make you learn anything new?

A. With everything that is going on, I learned to really appreciate life more. I also learned that you have to always be prepared for catastrophic events. Save money, make smart

investments, cherish the ones who genuinely loves you and ALWAYS trust and put God first.

Q. What has been your biggest accomplishment you have had in life?

A. The biggest accomplishment in life is graduating college when a lot of people doubted me and becoming a business owner, creating generational wealth to leave behind for my son KyShaune Green and future children.

Q. Can you tell us what basketball taught you that carried over into the other areas in your life?

A. Basketball taught me how to overcome adversity, even when you are tired and/or maybe injured physically or mentally. Basketball taught me how to work hard for whatever you want because nothing is handed to you. Most importantly, it showed me how to lead by example.

Q. Where can the readers follow you?

A. Website: www.greenhopefoundation.com Instagram: green_ hopefoundationinc Facebook: Green-Hope Foundation, Inc. Twitter: @GreenHope2018 Personal Instagram: deshaune_g Twitter: @Deshaune_G Facebook: Deshaune Green

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Dawn Harper Nelson

“ The main thing is keeping a schedule, make sure you give yourself a grace period. Also just be OK when things do not go according to plan. Just knowing you and your child(ren) are healthy. “

Q. Thanks for Interviewing with us tell everyone who you are and what you do?

A. I am Dawn Harper- Nelson an Olympic gold and silver medalist. I am a wife and a mom and I am also from East St. Louis.

Q. What made you want to compete in the Olympics?

A. Well, I started running track and became passionate about it early in life. Then I really started competing once I reached UCLA. I met my role model, Jackie Joyner Kersey, when I was about 13 and she gave me some encouraging words I had the talent and I worked hard at it and I took off from there.

Q. How was the experience training for the Olympics in Japan?

A. It was mind blowing! I actually competed in two other Olympics, Beijing and London. It was Just the thought of meeting people with different cultures all over the globe, and to be amongst the best of the best from each country.

Q. When was your first Olympic debut?

A. It was back in 2008. I had a great coach, Bobby Kersey, he really helped me and guided me along the way. I was just a baby at the time and I just was going to do literally anything he asked to be successful. He reassured me that I was totally ready at this point. I felt I was truly blessed at this point in my life to be given this opportunity at my age and win the gold medal.

Q. After Having the momentum with the success of your career, how were you able to shift over to the mother role?

A. Well, I thought I wanted a baby back in 2015, however, it didn’t go as planned. My husband was a great support and he wanted me to stop running when I felt like it.

He didn’t want me to stop prematurely and have this void in my life. So, I actually didn’t really shift, I had great support from both my family and my husband’s family to be able to continue to run and still be a mom.

Q. What went through your mind when you found out that the 2020 Tokyo Olympics were being postponed?

A. First, I felt like I had been doing all of this training and now what.

Then it went from being postponed to possibly cancelled. So, then I knew this pandemic was serious and figured this would give me time to perfect things that I felt I was rushed on. It really made me realize the pandemic is really affecting the world.

Q. Who is your sport hero(s)?

A. Jackie Joyner Kersey and Gail Devers. With Jackie, it was that we were from the same area and she perfected the craft also the connection with her husband he was my professional coach. Gail was one of the main reasons I went to UCLA and she went through everything with her illness and she is just a beast in the field.

Q. What are some of your best Mommy tips that you can share with us?

A. The main thing is keeping a schedule, make sure you give yourself a grace period.

Also just be ok when things do not go according to plan. Just knowing you and your child(ren) are healthy.

Q. Where can the readers follow you?

A. The readers can follow me at Facebook: Dawn Harper Nelson Instagram: Dharp100mh Twitter: Dharp100mh

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“ I started off with tennis when I was four years old, a lot of people didn’t know I played tennis.

Then I started with basketball then track, now I play professional football.”

Santia Deck 50

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Q. Thanks for interviewing with us tell everyone who you are and what you do?

A. Hello I am Santia, aka Track baby, aka Queen of Abs. I am a professional women football player & Owner of Tronus a shoe company.

A. My birthday was during the Versus between Jeezy and Gucci, so I went out, I enjoyed my birthday watching the Versus in a Corona-safe environment. I had fun.

Q. How close are you to your set retire age?

A. I set my goal to retire by 30.

I think I am on track. I’m staying true to my word!

Q. What made you want to become and athlete?

A. Honestly, I feel I was just born to be an athlete. I was always an athletic. I started off with tennis when I was four years old, a lot of people didn’t know I played tennis.

Then I started with basketball then track, now I play professional football.

Q. So, If I am correct you are the first professional woman football player to sign a multimilliondollar contract?

A. Yes, back in December of 2019, I became the highest paid female football player in history. I play for the WFLA and my team is the LA Fames. I think it really is going to be exciting this year.

Q. What has been the advantages and disadvantages being an athlete?

A. I would say the advantages has been, of course one would be making history. It has allowed me to meet a lot of people and be invited to travel to a lot of places.it has been insane in a good way. The disadvantage would be, the pandemic and with the season being cancelled, not being able to play as normal. Other than that, there are not too many disadvantages.

Q. Can you tell me about your sneaker company and how you got started?

A. My shoe company is name Tronus. Which is Greek for throne. It started off about two years ago with just getting my own shoe designed and then

being offered my own line with another company. I posted it on my Instagram, and it went crazy and then we started a whole shoe company out of it.

My mom stated she had faith that I could hold up against the major companies and here we are.

Q. I know you just had a birthday how did you celebrate this year?

Q. Who is/are your sports Hero(s)?

A. I would say my idle is FloJo. It was her style and outfits for me. I was like that in high school with my socks. A few others are Michael Johnson, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, and now Barry Sanders for football.

Q. What was it like transforming from track to football?

A. It wasn’t too hard. Just because I had brothers that I played along with when I was younger. I was a tomboy, so it was pretty easy. I would say learning the playbook was the hardest thing, because I was just used to running around the field and not learning plays.

Q. Are you an ambassador for Fashion Nova?

A. I used to be, but right now I just wear it because I like the clothes and they fit well. They have a lot of different clothes for everyone.

Q. Where can the readers follow you?

A. Everyone can follow me on Instagram, TikTok Twitter at Trackbaby001 and Facebook Queen of Abs

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