2019 LGF October Magazine

Louisiana gridiron

Football Breiden Fehoko: Heart of the Warrior, The Eye of the Tiger

Colby Hollier

South Beauregard pg 13 Oct 2019 Volume 5 Issue 7

$7.99

Kameron Williams Ouachita Parish pg 10

2

ADVERTISE WITH

LOUISIANA GRIDIRON

FOOTBALL IN DEMAND CONTENT | COMPETITIVE PRICING | EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE C O M F O R TA B L E W O R K I NG W I T H B U S I NES S E S , S C H O O LS , & O R G A NI Z AT I O NS

TO ADVERTISE, CALL Andrew Br yson (985) 789-9351 OFFICE ADDRESS: LOUISIANA GRIDIRON FOOTBALL 132 Hummell St SUITE C DENHAM SPRINGS, LA 70727

October 2019

Contents 9 10 13 14 15 16 17 18 20 21 22 31 32 33 34 36 37 38 39 40 41

4

Peyton Marcantel Kameron Williams Colby Hollier Da’Mon Perkins Jaylin Pendleton Reginald Johnson Nick Sciara Lamon Lewis Joseph Thomas Zahn Diaz Breiden Fehoko: Heart of the Warrior, The Eye of the Tiger Brenton Bachemin Braelon Hobson Christian Mannino Shamar Smith Khalil Brisco Michael Cerniauskas Donovan Johnson D’Ante Gallashaw Vincent Hall Tyran Cassie

STAFF

Owner/Publisher/CEO

Coach Andy Bryson

Editor

Kristen Bryson

Dir. Of Ad Sales And Business Development

Corey Brownfield Advertising/Sponsorships

Doug Gann Danielle Baca

Business Consultant

Richard Hebert Head Football Scout Josh Sibley

Front Center: Andy Bryson, Back Row Left to Right: Richard Hebert, Josh Sibley, Jason Saucier

H/S Football Scout

Coach Fred Washington Coach Lamar Watson Photographer

Jason Saucier Robert Brummel John Sliman

Sideline Reporters

Dan Martin Peter Martin Josh Kirkpatrick Brady Goings

NFL Writer

Kevin Empey

Follow Us louisianagridironfootball.com @lagridfootball @louisianagridironfootball

5

Freshman Cornerback Derek Stingley Jr catches an interception against Utah State.

Derek Stingley has started all 7 games this season as a true freshman; he also leads the SEC and ranks No. 3 nationally in passes defended with 14 (2.0 per game).

Stingley leads the Tigers with a pair of interceptions and has 18 tackles.

Diamond In The Rough O U R G O A L AT L G F I S T O H E L P T H E U N D E R R AT E D

BECOME RECRUITED We highlight the best junior and senior athletes Louisiana has to offer. D.I.T.R. articles showcase the talent and ability of these players.

Peyton Marcantel is a 4 star athlete out of St. Edmund High School in Eunice, LA. Marcantel checks in at 6’2 220lbs and has incredible speed, power, and agility to compliment his great frame. Peyton plays a multitude of positions, including running back, strong safety, and in the slot. Along with football, Peyton is an outstanding catcher for his high school’s baseball team. Marcantel is no stranger to adversity as well. During his baseball career, Peyton suffered an injury while swinging the bat, which resulted in a collapsed lung. Not only did Peyton make a full recovery, but claims the injury, as well as his 4 surgeries, have made him an even better athlete and young man.

First, I want to ask about your injury. Walk me through some of the troubles you experienced through football with surgery and recovering from a collapsed lung. This may sound surprising, but there’s a lot of positivity that came out of that whole experience. Obviously there were some negatives as well. The recovery time was extremely long, and I lost a lot of weight and strength as a result. Fortunately, through very hard work I was able to gain back all of my weight, along with my strength. The whole experience was a great lesson in overcoming adversity. It really forced me to push myself during recovery, both on and off the field. Because of that effort, I feel like it made a positive change in my mentality when it comes to going the extra mile in pushing myself.

Peyton Marcantel St. Edmund High

Hometown: Eunice Ht: 6’2” wt: 220 class of 2020

That is a great thing to hear, especially since you have been able to continue playing sports following that experience. So when did you begin playing football and what drew you into the sport? I began playing when I was in 5th grade. I first started off in baseball, and to be honest, I wasn’t really the greatest athlete. Eventually I was moved to catcher because I was always a big kid for my age group and that’s when my talent started to show. I was chosen for select baseball and that boosted my confidence levels a lot, which made me consider joining football. Then, around 6th grade, I began to take football very seriously and I’ve excelled ever since.

What about football, and the positions you play, do you love the most?

I love having control of the football as a running back. However, I’m not a selfish athlete. I’ll play whatever position my coaches ask of me. No position is more important than another, and I think that’s what I love most.

Being a multi-position athlete I have first-hand knowledge of that.

You play a lot of positions on your team, but is there any position that you do not play and that you would love to get a shot at? Definitely linebacker. My older brother played that position, so it’s always a role I’ve been fascinated with. I believe, with my size and speed, I would be a good fit as a linebacker.

How would you describe yourself as a running back and is there anyone at the next level that you try to model your game after? I have really good speed and have no problems setting the edge and burning defenders, but because of my size I’m also extremely powerful. So, I guess the best way to describe myself as a runner is extremely balanced. As far as modeling my game after someone, I really don’t try to do that. I watch a lot of films on guys in college and in the NFL and try to pick up on some of their moves, but my main focus is trying to have my own unique style of play, while standing out from the crowd.

Any type of play in particular that you look forward to during a game?

I love power run calls but also love to run sweeps. The thing I love about sweeps is that it allows your patience to show and also it sets me up to show off my stiff arm. I have a really great stiff arm but lately I’ve been focused on trying to just run straight into people and run over them.

Have you set any personal or team goals for your senior season? As a team we’re trying to become district champs. We’ve won it the last two years so getting it a third straight time would be huge. I take my personal goals on a weekly basis. It’s really not about me it’s about the team and getting better as a unit. I’ll watch film and prepare for our opponent and sort of set a game-time goal, but it’s not a make-or-break thing for me. I’m just focused on continued improvement.

by: Dan Martin

9

Kameron Williams, 4-star and second ranked tight end in the state (by LGF), attends Ouachita Parish High School in Monroe, Louisiana.

Kameron achieved an average of 8.6 on our rating scale which averaged his abilities in agility, speed, footwork, hands, vision, height, weight and more. This means he is a force to be reckoned with on the field. Kameron was recognized with an All-District Award for his athletic performance.

He also managed a 2.9 GPA and a 19 on his ACT. Kameron is looking to have an outstanding year with his team and to continue on with his football career at the collegiate level, so keep your eyes open as you might be seeing his name again later this season.

How long have you been playing football and what aspect of the game do you love most? “I have been playing football since I was 5, and I love the physicality of it and the athleticism involved with it.”

What has been your biggest accomplishment in football? “Earning scholarships and looks from different schools.”

Where have you seen the most growth in your game? “I would say with my blocking and catching.”

How do you prepare for game day? “Personally, I hydrate and get my mind right to prepare for what’s ahead of me.”

Kameron Williams Ouachita Parish

Tight End Hometown: monroe

ht: 6’2” wt: 220 Class of 2020

What is the most challenging aspect of football? “The heat.”

Have you ever felt like quitting? What motivated you to keep going?

“It was during the summer. We had an intensive workout with a lot of running, but it was my team. They are like my brothers, so they just kept me going.”

What are you looking forward to this season? “Man, having fun and winning.”

Who is your favorite NFL player and why? “Travis Kelce because he reminds me of myself. The way he plays tight end and uses his body to maneuver over small defensive backs.”

What has football taught you? “It taught me responsibility and how to take care of my business especially in the classroom. I can’t just be an athlete; I have to be a student-athlete.”

Have you thought about a college major? “Sports business and management or sports medicine because I love the field of sports. I can’t see myself not involved in sports.”

What advice can you give to players who look up to you? “Don’t just work hard when you get to school. You have to work after school too, and you can’t always think about yoursel. You have to think about you team too.”

What does football mean to you? “Everything. It is like way out from everything. When I am going through things, I can just watch football and it will ease my mind.”

By: Danielle baca

What is something the audience might not know about you? “I am a family person, and my mom has influenced me because she has been raising me by herself for a few years now. She has had a big impact on my life, and she is my motivator.”

INFORMEDsport certified Coaches, nutritionists and athletes of all ages and at all levels of competition can feel confident knowing that GPS products have been tested for banned substances, are safe to consume and are of the highest quality.

CONTACT ME: NA M E

WEBSITE:

Call For More Information: PHONE EMAIL Coach Darin Moore (HC Pineville High) 985-507-9924 Coach Andy Bryson (DC Lacombe Cardinals) 985-789-9351

1

February 2019

Colby Hollier is a 4-star 1st team all-district running back from South Beauregard. At 6’1” and 180lbs with a 4.53 forty, Colby has good size and speed for the running back spot. Along with his build, he has a good head on his shoulders, maintaining a 3.4 GPA in the classroom. On the gridiron, his running style can be summed up with one word—“effort”. He seeks contact and will fight for every inch. He has a good initial burst that allows him to get to the edge and pull off long runs. Out the backfield he displays soft hands and finds the opens space.

Outside of running back, he is a solid kick returner who is good at following blocks and finding the seam. He has a bit of wiggle to him and can make defenders miss. As a person, Colby comes off as an earnest person who values his Christianity.

How did you first get into football? When I was little I loved watching football and always wanted to play it. So, at six years old my parents signed me up for flag football, and I have played ever since. My Mom really was the first one who got me into the game.

Why do you still play football? I love the game. The adrenaline rush you get when you play is amazing, but I can’t describe it. When I’m on the field, I’m just playing and not really thinking. Also, just being on the field with my teammates and being apart of something bigger than me is great.

What has football taught you? It has taught me how to be a leader. Before football, I was never a real people person or vocal. It taught me how to step up and speak out. Right now, I’m a leader to my team’s underclassman and the kids in my area. I set a good example for them by helping other people, being respectful, and excelling in school.

Colby Hollier South Beauregard Athlete Ht: 6’1” wt: 180

Best football memory? My favorite memory was the time I scored five touchdowns in our homecoming game last year. I scored on a kick return, a catch, and three rushing touchdowns. That was amazing.

Who is your favorite NFL Player? I would have to say Odell Beckham Jr. He set goals his rookie year that he wanted to achieve. Even when he didn’t accomplish some of those goals he kept moving forward and eventually won Rookie of the Year. I want to have that same kind of mindset as a person and player.

How would you describe your style of play? I’m more of an agility guy than a power guy. I’m good on outside runs and bubble screens. Someone who beats you in space.

Describe yourself in three words? Athletic, Humble, Hard-working.

Who or what has influenced you the most in your life? I would say my Dad. He makes sure to do the right things and makes sure I do the same. He taught me how to work hard and not to give up on things you want. He also taught me to do the right things and how to be a good Christian. My Christianity is very important to me.

Class of 2020 By: Joel Martin

What do you want to major in once you get to college? I plan to major in Criminal Justice. For my future job I want to be a state trooper or a game warden. I like being outdoors and hunting, and that’s what a game warden’s job is basically.

I also like things that are constantly changing, something that’s different every day.

What sets you apart as a person and a player? My team and other people I know look up to me. They expect big things from me. Their expectations motivate me to do better and push me not to let them down.

How do you prepare for an upcoming game? Practice as hard as I can and use all the information the coaches give to me. I also watch film on my opponent and look for the little things that can help me excel in the game. I’m mainly looking at the linebackers and how they move and trying to pick up on any tendencies they have.

Outside of football, what do you want to achieve? I want to become a better Christian who helps motivate others and brings people closer to God. I want to fulfill my dreams in life and not get stuck with something I don’t want to do. And I want to be a great leader that works hard in every aspect of life.

13

Da’Mon Perkins is a senior defensive back from Scotlandville High School in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He has the ability to play sideline to sideline in coverage over the top, and can also come down into the box in run support. The 5’10” 160lb athlete is no stranger to contact, racking up 44 tackles and also adding 3 picks last season.

When did you start playing football? I started playing when I was about seven years old.

Did you play any other sports growing up? I played basketball, but I stopped when I was about ten.

How did you get your start playing football? My older brother, I was at one of his games. He played for Madison Prep.

Have you always played DB or have you played any other positions? When I was little I played free safety and center. My team needed a center, so I helped them out.

Da’Mon Perkins Scotlandville High Defensive back ht: 5’10” wt: 160 Class of 2020

Who would you say some of your biggest influences are? Jamal Adams because he’s a run stopping safety that can cover every receiver in the league. I feel like I can do that too.

Let’s go back to last season, what were some of your goals last season? My goal last season was to be better than the season before that.

Did you meet that goal? Yes sir.

What goals do you have for this year? Hopefully sign a scholarship to a school, and make it to the Dome and win.

How are you working to achieve those goals? Working hard, working on my communication with my teammates.

Have you been to any off-season or summer camps? I went to the Boot Showcase, and I went to the LSU camp.

What style of play would you say best describes you? Aggressive!

Do you think attitude is a factor in winning? Absolutely, if you have a negative attitude, you can bring that on someone else. Your teammates can feed of your attitude.

What do you think is a strength in your game play? My tackling ability. I feel like I can tackle anyone.

Do you do anything within your community to help it? I help with a daycare that helps children.

By: josh sibley

What is your go to music before a game? Something that gets you hyped? This musician called Lil Baby. I like to listen to him; I like the song “Never needed no help”.

Jaylin Pendleton baker high school wide receiver ht: 5’10” wt: 150 class of 2020

by: dan martin

Jaylin Pendleton is a senior wide receiver for Baker High School (Baker, LA). Originally from Monroe, LA, Jaylin moved to Baker, LA with his mother at the age of ten years old. Last year, Jaylin suffered an injury which sidelined him for the entire 2018 season, but is looking to make a strong comeback in his senior campaign for the Baker Buffaloes. As a wide receiver, expect Pendleton to pose as a serious deep threat for the Baker offense. In his scrimmage versus Donaldsonville High School (Donaldsonville, LA) Pendleton accounted for 3 receptions and 98 yards, including a 67 yard diving grab versus one-on-one coverage, all on his first game back in over a year. Pendleton stands at 5’10” and weighs 150 lbs, with the ability to play a multitude of positions including corner and safety. Jaylin was kind enough to take time out of his day to answer a few questions about himself and his team at Baker High.

What attracted you to the sport of football and what age were you when you first started playing? I’ve always enjoyed watching football from a young age, especially since my cousin Xavier Woods (Dallas Cowboys) played in the NFL and I would watch him play on Sundays. My first time playing football was when I was 10 and I moved from Monroe, LA to Baker, LA with my mom.

So, outside of football, what are some other activities you enjoy doing in your free time? Do you play any other sports in high school? When I was young I always loved playing basketball with friends. This year I am playing basketball for the first time in high school. I also run track for my high school team. I just love to compete.

What are your expectations for the upcoming season? Do you have any personal or team goals you want to accomplish? As far as team goals, Coach Randall always has us focused on the next game. Championships are great, but looking ahead to those things can make a team unfocused and unprepared. So, I’d say just taking it game by game and getting the seniors to keep showing up as leaders. Personal goals aren’t as important as the team, but I want to just keep improving my game and show everyone that I can be the team’s deep threat on offense.

You mention your ability as a deep threat receiver, would you consider that your biggest asset? And is there any specific part of your game you believe needs the most improvement? My deep threat ability is definitely one of my best assets, but I truly believe I am at my best as a leader for the team. Because of my injury last year, the main thing I want to improve is my conditioning. The better shape my body is in, the easier it will be to stay healthy all season.

What is it like coming back as a starter after missing a year because of a devastating injury? For me, it’s all about mindset. It’s a constant mind game you play with yourself and you start to look at things you’re doing differently. You look at things differently and have to be extra careful that another injury won’t happen.

Do you have a favorite player in college or the NFL that you model your play style after? My biggest influence is my cousin (Xavier Woods). Seeing him play in the NFL is extremely inspirational as a kid still in high school. My favorite player would have to be Antonio Brown. I love how he can go one-on-one with anyone and always seems to come up with the ball. I try to be a deep threat like him and love watching Antonio play.

15

Reginald Johnson is a 4-star wide receiver with a 3.0 GPA from Southern University’s Laboratory School. He was born and raised in South Baton Rouge and has tremendous success as a wide receiver due to his speed and aggression on the field. He scored an impressive 10/10 in hands, footwork, vision, and agility on our rating scale. Reginald’s performance on the gridiron has made him a desirable player and has captured the interest of college coaches both in and outside the state of Louisiana. His passion for the game is unmatched and he is looking forward to an exciting senior season and another shot at making that championship game.

When did you start playing football and what made you love the game? “I started playing football when I was six years old. I really saw how fast I was because it was like nobody could stop me.”

Reginald Johnson Southern lab wide receiver ht: 6’2” wt: 180 gpa: 3.0

class of 2020 by: danielle baca

Have you always been a wide receiver or did you start somewhere else on the field? “Well, I would say I am an athlete so when I got to high school there were so many people on the defensive side like running backs and stuff, so I went to be a receiver. I always had the feel for it, because I played it at BREC and I wanted to play this position in ninth grade. I have been playing ever since. Plus, I like to embarrass defensive backs on the field.”

What other things do you have, outside of football, that you enjoy doing in your free time? “I like going to the movies, working out, hanging out with my teammates, swimming, and riding dirt bikes or four wheelers…stuff like that.”

How have you been preparing for the Jamboree against Amite and what are some personal as well as team goals? “We have been preparing for a while just trying to get everything right. The spotlight is on us right because we lost a lot of players and everyone wants to see how we are going to respond this year. My goals for the game are 4 touchdowns, good yardage, and I may play cornerback so if I do and they throw it on my side I plan on taking it.”

How do you plan on combating this loss of talent and helping your team be successful this year? “Keeping everybody’s mind focused on the goal of getting to state in September and getting that ring. I want to remind them what is really out there for us since we failed in the game right before the championship. I try to keep everything flowing well since there are a lot of young guys on the team especially in the classroom.”

What do you think your biggest asset is on the field? “I feel I am a go-to guy. Also, my ability to read the coverages on the defensive side when I am the receiver on the line of scrimmage, my speed, and I can really adjust to whatever it is the other team has going on. It is like I can see what is going to happen based on how they line-up. I feel I am different in that I never want to come out of the game, and once I get the ball it is hard to tackle me you will probably catch me at the end zone.”

What are some personal skills you have been looking to improve for this upcoming season? “I would say my footwork and having clean, strong hands.”

Lastly, who are your role models in football right now?

“Hmm…I would say Odell Beckham Jr. or Derrius Guice because he is like a cousin to me.”`

Nick Sciara is a 4-star offensive lineman out of Oak Grove High School (Oak Grove, LA). Nick enters his senior year at 6’1”, 285 lbs with a bench of 325 and a squat of 615. Nick possess exceptional explosiveness off the ball with the strength and agility to compliment it. What is more impressive, however, is Nick’s intelligence and his diligence in the classroom. Boasting a perfect 4.0 GPA and an ACT score of 29, Sciara fits the mold of a model lineman and young man. Along with football, Nick played 1st base and pitcher for his high school baseball team and throws discus for Oak Grove track & field. Nick’s football career began in junior high, where he fell in love with the competitiveness of the sport and realized his potential as an aggressive force on the line of scrimmage. Following workouts, I received the opportunity to talk to this talented young man about his life, goals, and experience with the game of football.

Nick Sciara OAK GROVE HIGH OFFENSIVE LINE HT: 6’1” WT: 285 GPA: 4.0 ACT: 29

CLASS OF 2020 by: dan martin

What is your favorite aspect of football? When did you first realize your love for the sport? What initially attracted me to football was the competitiveness of the sport. The best players deserve to play and it isn’t a sport of entitlement. Along with that, I love the camaraderie and relationships that develop from being on a team. Additionally, the physical aggressiveness of the game is what drives me. I just love to go out there as an aggressor.

In your opinion, what is the hardest aspect in preparing for a game?

Definitely the mental side of things. I have to make sure that my focus always remains constant. Thinking is a crucial part of the game, but I believe it’s important to trust your muscle memory. At the end of the day, a huge part of playing offensive line is muscle memory and reinforcing what we’re taught in practice.

Do you have any personal goals for this season? Any goals as a team?

Personally, my goal is to make All-State. I made All-State as a junior, so repeating and attaining that honor in back-to-back years is huge. For our team, winning the State Championship is what we strive for. Last year we made it to the Superdome but came up short. This year we aim to finish strong and win it all.

That must be a bittersweet feeling. What is it like to make it all the way to a championship only to come up short? How are you and your teammates using that for motivation this season? Well, first of all, that was an experience I’ll never forget. It was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Getting to play on that stage, against the best of the best is what I love about the sport. It’s unfortunate that our team fell short of winning it all, but it showed us that we have the talent and experience to get there again. It proved that we’re capable and only motivates us more to go out and win a championship because now we have a taste for it, we know that we belong with the best.

Can you describe your style of play? Is there an athlete that you model your game after and is a personal favorite? We run a ground and pound offense, so my play style is definitely that of a run-blocker. I love to be hyper aggressive and impose my will on an opponent. That’s why my favorite athlete is Quenton Nelson of the Indianapolis Colts.

Seeing how a rookie lineman can go out there, toe-to-toe with guys like Jadeveon Clowney and use his aggressiveness to manhandle those guys is a huge inspiration.

What would you tell a coach or recruiter about yourself that sets you apart from the crowd? What do you believe is your best quality as a player and young man? I have a relentless drive when it comes to things like practice and workouts. I firmly believe and expect myself to always go above and beyond what is expected. I also believe in myself as an intelligent person. Coaches appreciate someone who works just as hard in the classroom as they do on the practice field.

17

Lamon Lewis is a 3-star linebacker out of St. James High School who benches 300 lbs and squats 465 lbs. He finished with a 3.0 GPA and All-District award as a linebacker in his 2018 season.

Lamon’s hard work and vision make him a threat to all his opponents in addition to his passion for the game of football. He always makes an effort to keep his team focused and on the same page in order to see results on the field. Lamon stands tall at 6 feet and weighs 215 pounds but still receives a 10/10 rating in his footwork. On top of his recognition in football, many may know him for his volunteer work in the community as he helps clean up trash around St. James and Lutcher. Keep your eyes out for Lamon Lewis this season!

Lamon Lewis st. James high linebacker ht: 6’ wt: 215 gpa: 3.0 class of 2020

When did you start playing football and what made you stick with it all these years? “I started playing football when I was six years old, and I think I stuck with it because all of my uncles and the other men around me played. That always made me interested, because I wanted to be like them.”

Do you have any role models in college or the NFL? “I look up to Devin White and Deion Jones Jr. because they are both linebackers like me and I just love the way they play football.”

What is your biggest motivation in football? “My biggest motivation in playing is really to get a scholarship and help get my mama out of the situation we are in.”

What has football taught you? “Football has taught me a lot about manhood and staying away from the streets to be honest with you.”

Have you always been a linebacker? “I actually used to play running back my eighth grade year when one of my coaches left that year and I ended at linebacker with my new coach after that and have been there ever since.”

What are your goals this season? What steps are you taking to try and achieve your goals? “My goal this season is to be a team captain and win a district and state championship. I would say just working hard every day and taking everything on one thing at a time.”

Do you have other hobbies outside of football? “I do powerlifting. My coach told me about it, and I actually went to state for it and finished fourth overall in my weight class last year. Powerlifting is good because it really helps with my core strength for football as well.”

by: danielle baca

What sets you apart from other athletes? “I just try and run to the ball every play you know it is not always about making a big hit every play but a secure tackle each play. I am bigger than most kids and I am aggressive so I like punching the ball out, so I think that makes me different.”

What have you worked on in the off season? “I have worked on my speed and really maintaining my weight.”

What advice would you give to young athletes looking up to you? “I would say just keep working, don’t let anybody tell you that you cannot do anything in life, and always try your best.”

If you could describe yourself in three words what would they be? “Courage, strength, and intelligence are my words because I think they describe me perfectly.”

P3 Quarterback Academy (225) 202-5038

Joseph Thomas, 4-star linebacker, comes from the 7th ward of New Orleans and currently plays for the Edna Karr Cougars. He scores high all across our rating chart with tens in several categories from footwork to his hands to his ability to view the field. He is not only a star on the field but in the classroom as well! Joseph scored a 20 on the ACT and earned a 3.4 GPA so he is definitely a positive role model for his teammates. He has been playing the game since he was 7 years old and was inspired to continue pursuing the game by those around him. Joseph says he took on the position of linebacker as he began playing more competitively but he now knows this is the position he was meant to be in all along.

What have you learned from playing football and how do you utilize those things in life to try and grow or better yourself?

“Brotherhood and discipline. You know trusting people and talking to people. How I am talking to you right now like just better with communicating with other people. We do a lot of things like proper eating, travel, and even working on how to present myself.”

Joseph Thomas edna karr

linebacker ht: 5’11” wt: 195 gpa: 3.4 act: 20

What qualities do you possess that make you a great teammate?

“As the team captain, I will be there if my teammates need me you know if they have a problem they can always call me. I am like a big brother so just that brotherhood.”

What are your personal and team goals for this season? To win week one because that is a big game. We got John Curtis so that is a tough match up since they won the championship last year. I want to go to the championship this year but really just make this team unforgettable.”

What are some aspects of your game that you have been working on to accomplish these goals? “You know I play outside linebacker so just trying to work on my ‘A’ game and my speed. I have gotten a lot faster and have been doing a lot of running.”

What is your squat, bench, and 40 time? “I squat 495 pounds, bench 225 pounds, and I am not sure on my 40.”

How has recruiting process been? “I have schools like Tulane, Bama, and Houston you know places like that. It has been good so far.”

class of 2020 by: danielle baca

What words of advice do you have for other football players trying to make it just like you? “Be yourself and trust the process, and when adversity strikes don’t ever back down. Always look to your brothers for the answer, because if you are going through something chances are someone else on the team is too. The only way you will figure it out is if you talk to one another.”

Who is your biggest influence in football? “Hmm…my teammates and Coach Bryce! Coach has done a lot for me, growing up in a single parent household, just me and my mama, and not really having a male figure in my life. He came in and taught me a lot. You know how I am talking you right now, if you would have called my freshman year I probably wouldn’t have wanted to talk so he really helped me a lot.”

How has football help you overcome those obstacles? “Well I wouldn’t really say it was football, I would say it is my teammates.

They help me with it all because they are why I never quit or gave up.”

What is your style of play? “I would say wild. I am all over the place; I am just everywhere on the field and ready for whoever.”

Zahn Diaz is a 4 star Running Back out of Mandeville High School (Mandeville, LA) and current commit to the 2019 LGF All-Star game held at Louisiana College. Diaz has a current GPA of 3.3 and an ACT score of 22. Coming into his senior year, Zahn posts a bench press of 305lbs with and squats of 500lbs. Talking with Zahn, he told me that he first found a love for football through his older brother. At a very young age, Zahn’s brother would use him as a practice tool, throwing him around the yard and making Zahn try to tackle him. Because of this fierce competitiveness and aggressiveness, Zahn said he immediately took a liking to the sport and could not wait to start playing for real.

Zahn, are there any goals that you have set for yourself or as a team for this upcoming season? I’m all about the team. Coming out as a unit and getting a win is paramount. The team will always take priority over any individual stats. If I, or a teammate’s main focus is about individual stats, then something is wrong. So, I would say my main goal is to go out each week and get a win. Simple as that.

That seems like the right attitude to have, however, if you had to pick something you’re looking forward to, personally, for this season, what would that be? Well, last year I was 2 yards shy of breaking the school single-game rushing record. The record was 309 yards, and I rushed for 307. That is a sort of goal I would like to get accomplished this season.

Zahn Diaz

mandeville high running back ht: 6’ wt: 185 gpa: 3.3 act: 22 class of 2020 by: dan martin

Walk me through the mindset of coming up just 2 yards shy of a record of that caliber. How does that affect your psyche as a player being that close to having your name in the record books? It’s all motivation. I would never look at that and take it as negative. If anything it lit something inside me. I know I have the potential to break that because I was essentially one carry away. Now, every game I come out knowing I am a record setting-type of back. That kind of confidence is great to go into every game possessing.

Is there a part of preparing for a game that is especially difficult? Any sort of pre-game or in-game rituals you do that help you get ready for game day? The hardest part is nerves. If a player doesn’t have a little nervousness then something is wrong. I understand that there is a beneficial amount of nervousness that is only natural before a game, so I never let that steer my game. As far as during a game, I think it is important to keep yourself in check and take everything one snap at a time.

If you can mentally slow everything down, you already have a mental edge over your opponent and that pre-game nervousness quickly fades.

Can you describe to me the type of running back you are? Is there any current or former back that you see yourself in and model your game after? I’m definitely a back that can be categorized as speedy and shifty.

I love using my speed and athleticism to set the tone and avoid tackles.

That doesn’t mean I’m afraid of contact. I have no problems lowering my shoulder and delivering a powerful hit to pick up extra yardage. As far as modeling my game after someone? I don’t think I do. I love the older guys, legends like Barry Sanders, however, I’m not trying to be someone else. When I play, I want to play it my way and be unique. I look inward towards myself as Zahn Diaz and want people to recognize my style of play as unique.

Talking about your uniqueness as a running back and your style of play, are there any misconceptions you believe people have about you? Either as a player or just as a person in general? Build-wise, I sometimes feel disrespected. People see my height and weight and automatically assume what type of player I am or how good I am. I’m 5’9, 185 lbs. But I don’t play like a “small” back. My strength greatly compensates for my size. I believe because of how strong I am, along with my speed, I can go toe-to-toe with anybody.

21

Breiden Heart of th The Eye of

Fehoko: he Warrior, f the Tiger

By Josh Sibley

G

rowing up the youngest of four boys in a household that had athletic lineage running throughout it, LSU defensive lineman Breiden Fehoko seemed destined for greatness. The son of Vili and Linda Fehoko grew up immersed in football. His older brother, Whitley, was an offensive lineman at San Diego State, while his other older brothers, Sam and V.J., both played at Texas Tech. Breiden got his start in the sport from his dad. “My dad had a lot of old equipment in the house, old pads, and old helmets.

He had time with the CFL and some semi-pro leagues, so he accumulated all this stuff over time. As kids, my dad always suited us up, I was always younger at the time, and he would always suit up my three older brothers [sic]. They were always hitting each other. I remember just sitting with my mom and watching them.”

Breiden tells me he loved watching his older brother Whitley play.

A smile creeps across his face as he remembers what it was like in the backyard watching his older brothers doing one-on-one drills and even one-on-two drills. “Whitley was always kind of the bully, not a bully, but he was big and physical. He loved being physical and hitting everybody.”

When Breiden was of age to play, he could not wait for his opportunity in the backyard. He told his dad he wanted to play football, and Vili suited him up. The instructions were easy, Breiden says.

“My dad said ‘Alright Breiden, you’re going to be the running back and V.J is going to be the linebacker’, and it was just straight up contact. We were just hitting each other, we went head up, GO. The next thing I know, I’m laying down looking up at the sky with a bloody nose, crying.” Breiden credits his father with teaching him that day that in order to play football you have to be tough, to get up after being knocked down, and to be physical. Breiden says chuckling, “Since I’ve been playing football, nobody ever hit harder than my brother.”

Breiden grew up playing basketball and running track. He recalls, “I did a little track in middle school. I know it’s hard to see, because [I look] so deceitful right now. But, I was a little runner back in my day.” He then goes on to tell me about his mother, Linda, playing for the first Fiji National Women’s Soccer Team while she was in high school at the age of 16, and learning how to kick from his mom. “Secretly I could always kick, so when I got to high school, I kicked field goals and punted. I was an All-State punter,” Breiden explains to me. His mother always wanted him to play soccer more, but his father leaned more into getting Breiden into playing on the gridiron. The older Fehokos, Whitley, Sam, and VJ, all played soccer growing up but Breiden did not. He explains his father was more passionate about the game of football than soccer. “My mom always wanted me to play soccer, Dad was always more excited about football, and football training. My older brothers played soccer when they were kids. I didn’t, I was just straight football.”

Linda Fehoko confirms to me that she and her younger sister both played on the Fiji Women’s National Team growing up. She says, “My sister and I were both selected. It was the first ever Women’s, like a mini-world cup, and it was in New Caledonia. My younger sister and I that were selected to play in that. She was 15 and I was 16 at the time.” After hearing this from Linda, I’m starting to now

realize just how athletic her son Breiden truly is. I’ve seen his play on the field, and heard the stories from Coach O about Breidens’ recruiting trip and his father curling 120 pound dumbbells. I was starting to see generations of athletes on both sides of Breiden’s family tree.

Vili Fehoko’s passion for the game carried over to all his sons, especially Breiden. “I love to put my helmet on and hit somebody, the game is so fun for me. If I could, I would play football forever.”

As Breiden explains, his eyes get big and that smile returns. You can clearly tell his excitement is building, explaining what he loves about football. He goes on, “When you break down football to just running, tackling, and just the basics of it, it’s a fun game. When you start adding in X’s and O’s, I think that’s when people start making it complicated. But to me, knowing that I can physically impose my will on another man is a great feeling. It’s not a great feeling when someone does it to you. I try to inflict it most of the time.”

Listed at 6’2”, 295 pounds, you would not think that Breiden would have any troubles imposing his will on an opposing offensive lineman. LSU Head Strength and Conditioning Coach Tommy Moffitt, had to tell Breiden earlier this year to stop going up in weight on the bench press once he hit 500 pounds. Breiden was recovering over the summer from a surgery that sidelined him at the end of last season. This is both a testament to Tommy Moffitt as well as the raw power that Breiden possesses. “Growing up watching my brothers be tough, and knowing how to be tough, knowing this game has made me tough. That’s why I love this game,” he says.

Breiden goes on to tell me the story of his days with his father at the University of Hawaii. How he helped out in his spare time any chance he could. “Everyone saw my dad, the warrior for the University of Hawaii, the face, the image. When you talked about the University of Hawaii, you talked about the football team, there was always an image of my dad there somewhere. I think the role that played, in my life growing up, was the exposure I got early at a young age to college football, to football at a big time level. Being that my dad worked for the University of Hawaii we were always there at the university facilities. We were able to use their weight room, we were able to use their facilities. We’d go out there on Saturdays and they’d have speed clinics for the players and we’d participate in them. And more than anything my dad being a mascot, and us busting our tail drumming on Saturdays in front of the crowd, I think it allowed us to become exposed to the nature of football. We found out it was more than just a game, it’s life now.”

Fehoko recalls carrying drums across the football field and realizing that football is bigger than a game. “I saw it as a way out, my brothers saw it as a way out. I think my dad did too, and I think that’s the vision he saw for us.”

I spoke with Vili Fehoko, the patriarch of the Fehoko family, about what it was like watching his sons grow up and get ready for football. “When I think of those early times, I get a little emotional.

Thinking about how far we came as a family. I always had pads and helmets in my weight room, my boys would come down there and want to work out, so I would make them do push-ups. They were too young to touch the weights, so I would let them hang on the pull up bar, not pull up but just hang there, do little things,” Vili says with a laugh. “One day they come to me and say we want to play football, and I say OK, so I suit them up.” Vili starts to laugh

25

MORE THAN A MULTI! A WHOLE GARDEN OF GOOD

daily build Give your body a strong foundation with the finest materials. The proprietary blends in Daily Build incorporate the best nutrients available from nature and science.

• Promotes a healthy immune system* • Helps protect against free radicals* • Supports strong teeth and bones* *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Call for more information: Coach Darin Moore (HC Pineville High) 985-507-9924 Coach Andy Bryson (DC Lacombe Cardinals) 985-789-9351

again recalling what his sons looked like in his old football equipment. “So I suit them up right in our backyard. That was the most fun times.”

Vili is a larger than life personality, and to hear him speak the way he did about his sons and the game of football itself was moving.

“Every time I go out to a football game, especially in Death Valley, I think about where we came from, from the small island of Hawaii, to, well I call it a big state. You talk about Death Valley, you talk about Louisiana. But, it is good to see my boys going to college and getting a scholarship to a Division I school. It’s good to see Breiden playing for LSU, a big time program. Growing up in Hawaii you always hear about these big time programs like LSU, Alabama, and Texas. I’m proud of my son, and it makes me proud as a dad.”

Vili tells me the story of Breiden being introduced to college football at a very young age in Hawaii. “I had been doing it for over 14 years as The Warrior on the sidelines for playing the drums for Hawaii. Breiden was too young to be on the field, I think he was two years old, so he had to sit in the dugout for baseball, where we set up our drums and security would sit in there and make sure he didn’t come out. But sometimes he would cry, and want to come out, so sometime I would pick him up and give him the Warrior paint, and treat him like a mini Vili the Warrior. We dressed Breiden liked that one time, and I think we played BYU who was No. 2 at the time. I ran out, every time I ran out the whole stadium would go crazy. So I ran out to the middle of the field, then I hear another roar from the stadium. I think I’m getting the crowd really fired up, and I look back and Breiden is doing his own show. The people of Hawaii loved it!” Vili is overflowing with excitement at this point in the story. “The people today still remember Breiden doing that show, they remember my older sons, but Breiden came out with this energy and after that the security allowed him to go on the field any time he wants.”

Even at a young age Breiden saw the writing on the wall. He watched his older brothers all receive Division I scholarships to play football. He knew that it was just a waiting game until his time would come. “Once my brother [Whitley] got his foot in the door of college football, my brother Sam followed, my brother VJ followed, it was kind of a no brainer. [I have] to go to college on a Division I scholarship,” Breiden tells me. Breiden knew he was very gifted, and very athletic and he was always trying to hold himself to higher standards. “Even as an eighth grader I was trying to hold myself to higher standards, whenever my dad would take me to FBU camps, or Nike football camps, or lineman camps.

I would never settle for me going with the eighth grade group, I would always go with the seniors. They would ask me, like, ‘How old are you?’ I would lie and say I’m going to be in the twelve grade. There were times I got my butt kicked, and there were times where I showed flashes of being a dominant player. That was the thing with my dad. Even though I had offers, he never wanted me to settle. He always wanted the best for me and for us. That is what helped me in my recruiting process too.” Breiden jokingly says he had a Ric Flair mentality about his recruiting process: “If I’m going to be the best, I have to compete with the best, and ultimately that is what led me here.”

28

When coming out of high school, Breiden tells me he really wanted to go to Oklahoma. He was just captivated by the Sooners. “I really wanted to go to Norman, I remember watching YouTube videos of the little horse running out, the Sooner Schooner and liking that. Then my brother VJ transferred to Texas Tech from Utah, and Sam was a graduate assistant at the time. Texas Tech really wasn’t on my radar, but things were falling into place one after the other. To me it was like, ‘Who is Texas Tech?’ I knew my brother played there. I knew they were in the Big12. To me it wasn’t an option. And then my brother was like ‘Hey, come take a trip. You don’t have to do anything we just want to see you.’ I’m obviously like, I want to go see my brothers, nothing wrong with a free trip to go see your brothers. [I] went out there, saw the atmosphere, and more than anything being around them really changed my mentality about being at a certain school. I noticed I wanted to be around them more than anything.” Family meant more than football to Breiden, and it showed. He was being courted by the likes of Alabama, Clemson, USC, and yes, Oklahoma.

I asked Breiden if there was a culture shock coming over from Hawaii, into Lubbock, and then into Baton Rouge. “When you talk about a culture change, I really didn’t see that much because the people in Hawaii, there’s this thing called the ‘Aloha Spirit’, people being friendly, loving, showing joy. It was the same thing I got when I went to Texas Tech, whether, I had one tackle or I had five sacks. Whether we lost the game or won by 2 or by 50. People were always asking me, ‘How are you feeling’, saying I’m doing good.

I’d go to the Pancake House in Lubbock on Saturdays and people

would say ‘Hey, how are you doing?’ It wouldn’t even be in the season.” Breiden is nodding his head up and down in a positive manner telling me this story. “Then when I got to LSU, I remember taking my visits to different colleges and Coach O recruited when he was at USC, and Coach Aranda I had built up a relationship with him when he was at the University of Hawaii when he started off there.” A small grin has gathered on Fehoko’s face recalling that visit. “So really I wasn’t looking at the brand of LSU, I was looking at the relationships I had developed in the past. To where, you know what, I’m comfortable with these coaches I’m going to take a trip here.”

What a trip it was too. From the very moment he got off the plane, Breiden’s experience in Louisiana has stuck with him and LSU. “I remember getting off the plane, and this heat just surrounded me, and I started sweating for no reason. I usually travel in a sweat suit, so I’m in a Nike sweat suit, I have on a Nike jacket, some sweat pants. I get off the plane, and I’m just drenched. I’m walking to get my bag, I see my driver there, and he picks me up, because we flew into New Orleans. It’s sad to say that was probably the worst part of my trip, just getting off the plane. We got to BR, and Coach O greeted me with a big hug. We went to a team meeting, I knew some of the guys who were here. Arden (Key), Donte (Jackson), KT (Kevin Toliver), Maea (Teuhema), and Derrius (Guice) and all those guys. They were just saying what’s up to me and they were happy to see me, and ever since then I loved this place. I love every second being here, I love every minute. I love coming to workouts. I love the culture here, the culture is all about football.

Even outside of football, you go to Walk-Ons or something like that, you go to Louie’s everyone is like how are you doing, so it’s the same. So I’ve been blessed with being able to go from Hawaii to West Texas, and now to Louisiana and be able to come across nothing but great people.”

Culture and food seem to go hand in hand in Louisiana, I asked Breiden what his favorite food has been while in Baton Rouge and he let out an audible “Ooh” then asks “Are we talking about strict Louisiana food?” I tell him, “yes, let’s just stick to that.” At this Fehoko takes a deep breath thinking about his many meals while with the Tigers, and comes up with an answer. “You know what I like, it’s a weird combination, but I like jambalaya with gravy on it.

I want to say gumbo, but gumbo is too soupy for me, gumbo has a lot of flavor. But, being in Hawaii we eat a lot of rice, so when I got here I was killing jambalaya.” Breiden is reminiscing of past bowls of jambalaya that he has devoured. “If you look at pictures of me my red-shirt year, I was like 315 and like stocked up.” He puffs out his cheeks a bit to show some exaggerated weight. “All I did was just lift and practice. I was eating good food, and I can’t really do that anymore. But that jambalaya, especially when they have sausage and shrimp in it. Of course crawfish, I never had crawfish before I came out here. Crawfish is another great thing. Boudin is amazing, every time I go on a road trip in Dallas or something I’m always going to stop in Opelousas to get me boudin. I mean it’s a no brainer. If you give me a six hour road trip, I’m probably going to kill five or six links. Those are probably the best foods I’ve had since I’ve been in Louisiana.

29

Back to a little bit more of the Hawaiian culture, I heard that his father is a big drinker of Kava. A drink made from its roots and stems has been used socially and ceremonially for hundreds of years in Hawaii, Fiji, and Tonga. So I ask Breiden if he drinks it as much as his father does. “You know, I want to say yes” Breiden says chuckling, “because I know my dad is probably going to hear this, and he is probably going to laugh a little bit. I’ll drink kava here and there, because it’s so traditional. The reason being for kava is you celebrate a lot of things. You celebrate victories, funerals, you celebrate life. There’s a lot of different things to what kava does for you. To me honestly it really doesn’t even matter if it’s a wedding or celebrating a victory for LSU, it’s the whole tradition behind kava. To me it doesn’t taste good, I’ll tell you that. It looks like hot cocoa and tastes like dirt, it’s very deceiving. But, it’s one of those things that if I have to do it, of course, without a doubt.

While Breiden Fehoko is not the first athlete of Polynesian decent at LSU, he certainly is not the last. The recent LSU college graduate wants to leave his legacy at LSU for the next generation of Polynesians to step through the doors at Tiger Stadium. Breiden goes on to explain to me that with freshman defensive tackle Siaki Ika and JUCO transfer defensive end Soni Fonua, he feels that he has taken on a big brother role. “I think the biggest thing is knowing that after this year, I am going to leave and they are still going to be here. My thing is not trying to be like a big brother where I am telling them what to do, but, like show them the way, show them the road of how you do things. This is what the coaches expect, let me show you how to do it, and all you have to do is just mimic it, or even do it better when I’m gone.” Breiden takes a deep breath and adjusts his glasses. “Hopefully, five or ten years from now there’s 13 Polynesians on this football team. It doesn’t even have to be Tongan, I just want more of the connection here in the South, more Polynesians here in Louisiana. I think once you’re able to build that culture, like how we’re able to do now, like ‘hey Apu, this is what Coach O expects out of the nose guard, or hey Soni, as a defensive end, this is what Coach Johnson wants, this is what Coach O, Coach Aranda is looking for.’ Now going into next year, they already have a year they know what it looks like. Especially, with us winning right now, it helps to know that we won it done this way, why not keep it going?”

Something that has always worked for the Tigers is their commitment to each other. Some Tigers will go on to find careers in the NFL, CFL, or other professional sports. But, they are always giving back to LSU in some capacity. Fehoko goes on to tell me what he wants to see in the future at LSU. “My biggest thing is when I come back next year, and years forward, I want to see that nothing has changed, that the culture, not just Polynesians, but LSU football is continued with the younger guys.”

Breiden’s future does look bright. After being put on the Pre-Season Polynesian College Football Player Award watch list Fehoko tells me it was a blessing. “It was an honor, especially since there’s not a lot of Polynesians in college football. I take pride in being of Polynesian decent. A Tongan/Fijian who plays football for LSU. My dad comes from Tongan heritage, my mom comes from Fijian heritage and I take a lot of pride in that. A lot of people say, ‘Oh you’re from Hawaii, you’re Hawaiian.’ Hawaii by where I live, it’s just like someone that lives in Texas, they’re a Texan. That does not make them who they are. To me I am a Polynesian, I don’t just represent myself when I play football, and I represent a lot of peo

ple. A lot of lineage that has come before me, and that will come after me. A lot of great players like Junior Seau, Troy Polamalu, and Haloti Ngata. Players who have set the tone for Polynesian players. Kevin Mawae another great in the Hall of Fame. You take a lot of pride knowing you’re a Polynesian college football player, and there is a watch list and there is a limited amount, and you’re going to play your heart out for that.

Breiden explains to me that football is more than just a game to him, it is a passion, and his family is the fuel the drives that passion. “I think my family, my loved ones, every day I wake up I put my hand down in the ground, I think about them. I think about what my parents are doing. I think about how my mom is still working, I think about how my dad physically can’t work, and how I want to make things easier for them. I look at my brothers, I look at my nieces, I look at my family, my grandparents. Growing up I just have seen how much this game has been able to change lives, people that I know that have been able to take their families out of bad places and put them into a better future. To me every time I show up to this place, whether I have a rolled ankle or a pulled hamstring, I put that stuff aside and learn to focus on [that] my family needs me. I know it’s a lot, but I got big shoulders, put it on me. I want to do the best every time I can for them.” After explaining his passion and drive for the game, Breiden’s expression has turned from a smile to a more serious one. His earnest response and the conviction with which he speaks floors me.

Vili tells me the story of his mother passing in May of this year, it was very hard for the Fehokos, as losing any family member would be. It was especially tough on Breiden, he says, as he was the youngest. “My dad, we would go see him and he would always be really happy to see Breiden. Every time Breiden would walk into their house, my dad would say to me in my language, ‘Man, that son of yours looks like he’s about to push the sky.’ It would put a smile on Breiden. In May, when my mom passed, all of my sons went down, and Breiden went down there with his girlfriend to see my mom. My mom was smiling and happy, but at the same time she was crying. She told Breiden that she was waiting for him, before she left this life, that when she died she didn’t want him to come back for her funeral, and that she wanted him to stay. She said, ‘You go all the way, go all the way with LSU, and on.’

When Breiden left that was the last time she talked, the last time she said a word.” Vili shares this emotional moment with me that I will never forget. He continues, “I told my wife and Breiden, I believe your grandma is watching over you and LSU every day, and every game.”

Breiden Fehoko plays every snap for his family, whether that is the one in purple and gold lining up next to him on Saturdays or his “Ohana” the Hawaiian word for family. Breiden embodies the very spirit of head coach Ed Orgeron’s motto of “One Team, One Heartbeat.”

Brenton Bachemin, 4-star offensive lineman, from Archbishop Rummel High School is a Louisiana native who is looking to make it big in football. He stands tall at 6’4” and is a solid 275 pounds so he is hard to miss on the field. Brenton is a strong, aggressive player who is dedicated to his craft and puts his school work first.

He has a 2.8 GPA and scored a 20 on his ACT and says he is very serious about pursuing a collegiate career for himself.

When did you start playing football, and what made you love the game? “I started playing football at 5 years old. My dad was a football coach so I always loved and wanted to play football.”

Who is your favorite NFL player? “Tyron Smith because he is a very aggressive player.”

How would you describe your style of play? “I’m a very physical run blocker with good feet.”

Brenton Bachemin Archbishop rummel Offensive Lineman Ht: 6’4” wt: 275 act: 20 class of 2020

How do you deal with adversity on the field? “I get through adversity by saying a prayer, staying positive, and making sure to keep my team positive.”

Who has influenced you most in life? “My grandmother influenced me most in life because she raised 2 kids as a single mother and beat cancer.”

How do you balance school and football? “I balance school and football by taking 3 hours every night after school on school related work.”

Have you thought about a college major? “I want to do engineering because my dad is an electrician and I want to do something that will be hands on like him.”

What are some goals you have set for the season? “My goals are to make First Team All-District and be Catholic league and State champion.”

What have you been working on to get to the next level? “I’ve been working on my pass blocking a lot to make it to the next level.”

What sets you apart from your competition? “What makes me different from others is my selflessness on the field; whatever needs to be done I will get it done no matter how uncomfortable it may be.”

What are some of your values? I’m disciplined, have a legendary work ethic, and I have respect for the game.”

by: danielle baca

31

Braelon Hobson, class of 2021, is one of the most explosive and dynamic Defensive Ends that I have covered. He has raw talent, a tremendous motor, and is extremely violent at the point of contact. Being at Catholic High in Baton Rouge, LA, a 5A powerhouse in Louisiana with several State Championships under their belts, he had to patiently wait his turn. With no time to waste Braelon trained relentlessly throughout the off-season and summer, vastly improving technique, footwork, power, and explosiveness. This season Braelon has been a big asset to the Bears defense racking up sacks, TFLs, and QB hurries all while maintaining a 3.0 GPA in the classroom. Because of Braelon’s work in the off-season, creating a buzz at camps this summer and his production on the field so far this year, he has gained the attention of several college coaches.

We had the opportunity to sit down with the man himself and ask a few questions about the game he loves, his life, and future goals.

What age did you start playing football? 12 years old.

What is one thing you want to accomplish during your high school career? Putting my self in the best position possible with academics and athletics. Be seen and known for what I can do on and off the field, and to continue to help build our schools great program.

Braelon Hobson catholic b/r high Defensive end ht: 6’2” wt: 224 gpa: 3.0 class of 2021

by: coach lamar watson

What is your biggest accomplishment in football this far? I haven’t reached my accomplishments yet, but my goal is to make it to the NFL. In my mind that is where I want to be, and I won’t hesitate. I will keep pushing to accomplish this goal. I try to set small goals, some I succeed in and get done, but when I fail and frustration sets in I try to stay focused on my goals and work until I reach them.

Has playing football ever helped with personal problems off the field? Yes, football gives you a place where your abilities can speak for you. Other people’s opinions shouldn’t matter but football has a way of proving people wrong and proving something to yourself at the same time. I used this confidence on and off the field.

During your football career have you had to overcome any obstacles or difficulties? Yes, At the beginning of my sophomore year, I dislocated my left shoulder 4 times, resulting in my labrum tearing. The entire lower half of my labrum was hanging off my rotator cuff. I chose to get surgery, over trying to play the season with it. For 8 months I was unable to move my arm. Watching my teammates play the sport we all love, fighting for the next game, I felt like I couldn’t fight with them and that I didn’t put in the work they did. This put me in a place where I was second guessing even playing football. After reflection, talking to my parents, and just thinking about how much I love the sport I realized that I could never quit.

What do you love the most about football? The “box” . Where the defensive line, linebackers, offensive line, quarterback , and running backs line up. The absolute most action happens there, and it’s the beginning of every play. I love the action!

Do you consider football to be harder mentally or physically? Mentally, because being younger you can heal faster, but the stress you put on your body can’t be handled if you are not mentally strong. It requires both but you definitely have to be mentally strong.

How do you handle wins and losses?

Wins I’ll celebrate, then look for where I could’ve done better. Losses start with frustration, sleep, then immediately looking at what went wrong and what I could’ve done better to help my team.

Christian Mannino is defensive lineman from Central, Louisiana in the 2021 class. The junior, plays for Catholic High School located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Christian is a multi-sport athlete for the Bears competing in football, wrestling, and track. Standing at just over 6’1 and tipping the scales at 250 pounds, Christian has been a heat seeking missile to the ball this season for the Bears. Christian’s wrestling background has definitely helped him bring ball carriers to the ground this season. The junior tells me he has a max squat of 370 and can power clean 225, and currently has a 3.5 GPA. When did you start playing football? I started playing when I was five years old, for the Central Wildcats, my dad asked me if I wanted to play one day. I was watching it on TV when I was little, and said “Yeah”. He is really the reason I got started playing, and the reason I still play today. I really didn’t know how hard it was going to be in that first year, and wanted to quit. But, he didn’t let me quit, he said I still had to finish out the year. The next year, he asked me if I wanted to play again, and I said I did.

Did you play any other sports growing up? I played basketball and baseball until I was 10 or 12. Then, I started wrestling and track with the Bears. I still do all three of those. For track I throw shot put, and for wrestling, my weight class is 220.

Christian Mannino catholic b/r high defensive lineman ht: 6’1” wt: 250 gpa: 3.5 class of 2021

by: josh sibley

Have you always played defensive end, or did you play any other positions? I always played the line, since I’ve been in high school, though I’ve played offensive and defensive line. But, it was always either defensive tackle or defensive end.

So how did you get your start over at Catholic? I went to Central middle school, and my dad knew that Catholic was much better academically. He has always wanted me to go to college; he knew that Catholic was a better fit. I knew two guys from middle school that went to Catholic, and they were talking to my dad about their experience at Catholic. It was an easy choice after I talked to everybody.

What has your experience been like this year playing on the defensive line? It’s been great! Connor (Finucane) has kind of taken me under his wing and showed me what to do, and how to do certain things. Last year, was more of a growing year, just getting used to everything and playing with him. He really showed me how to play high school football. A lot of my success is because of him.

I know Coach Fertitta teaches the mantra of one game at a time, but going into this year did you have any goals for the season? Really just to get better, do better than last year. Last year being a sophomore, and not really playing any high school football besides JV, it was about getting better. I had a lot to learn last year with just the mind set and being comfortable with (Connor) Finucane and our linebackers that we played with last year just coming together more. I really think it shows this year us playing together longer, and our defensive being a better unit.

You say getting better, what are you doing to get better? Really just knowing more about the game, being more of a student of the game.

Studying more film on who we play, understanding what they do, what we do. How to do certain moves against one guy and different positions.

The lineman camps I went to over the summer, they really showed me a lot, and being able to take that and put it to use has helped me a lot.

Who are some of your biggest influences? Definitely my parents, and my coaches, and my team. My parents because they tell me what I can be, they push me every day more and more. My coaches for seeing everything that I can do, and continuing to trust me with time on the field, and putting leadership on me with the team. My teammates for helping me get better, pushing me, so that we can be the best that we can be on the field.

33

Shamar Smith is a 4 star quarterback out of St. James High School in Vacherie, LA. He stands at 5’10”, 180 lbs. Shamar is listed and is being recruited as an athlete, and he is currently committed to the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA). Shamar has exceptional speed, clocking in with a 40 yard dash time of 4.4 as well as a squat of 430lbs. Smith possesses an exceptional football IQ with the ability to make quick adjustments while reading opposing defenses. Shamar has great talent throwing the ball, but truly shines when outside of the pocket making plays with his legs. Along with a great football IQ, Smith’s hard work in the classroom is evidenced by his 3.2 GPA. At what age did you begin playing football and what got you into it? I started playing football when I was around 6 years old.

My interest began from just playing it in the yard as a kid and realizing that it was something I was extremely good at.

Shamar Smith

St james high school athlete ht: 5’10” wt: 180 lbs 40: 4.4 class of 2020

by: dan martin

Once you began playing, what was the first aspect of football that stood out that you fell in love with? I just love the physicality of it and how you can just go out there and hit somebody. Football is an aggressive sport and I like the competitiveness it brings out in you.

As a high school quarterback, what is the biggest task for you during a game? The constant in-game adjustments. As the leader on offense, I have to recognize defensive formations, schemes, and know if I have to check out of certain plays or make adjustments.

It’s a lot of responsibility.

Do you have a favorite football player or someone you strive to be like in your play style? For QB I model myself after Lamar Jackson, and another favorite of mine is Tavon Austin from Dallas.

So being that you model your play style after Lamar Jackson, would you consider yourself a dual-threat QB? I definitely consider myself as a dual-threat. I love running the football, and it is what I’m best at.

What drives you to go out there every Friday to compete? My goal is to always play for my grandmother and my cousin who both have passed away. When I’m on the field and making great plays, I know they’re looking down at me and are proud of my accomplishments.

What are some things that you feel set you apart from other athletes in the state? My work ethic. I’m always working on things outside of practice even when I’m not around my coaches and teammates. I’m also always looking to increase my football IQ, mainly by constantly studying film.

Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions? No, I’m not really a superstitious person, but one thing I always do before a big game is set aside time to pray. It’s a good way to clear my head and get focused.

Any play in particular that is your favorite, or one that you look forward to being called in-game? I can’t say that I have one particular favorite play. What I love most is just adapting to each situation and making the most out of what the defense gives us.

Finally, if not quarterback, is there another position you believe suits your talents? Wide Receiver for sure. I’ve played the position before and have a lot of knowledge when it comes to route running and reading defenders.

Isn’t it time for a better way of life?

NUTRITION WEIGHT LOSS ENERGY SPORTS PERFORMANCE SUPERFRUITS

The key to caring for and maintaining our bodies is actually quite simple. It all starts with getting back to the basics and giving the body what it needs.

Rediscover how to live a balanced lifestyle with the support of quality products and a community of people who share in the same goals and values.

Isn’t it time for a better way of life?

ASK ME HOW!

Coach Darin Moore Number (HC Pineville High) 985-507-9924 Name – Phone Coach Andy Bryson (DC Lacombe Cardinals) 985-789-9351 Website or Email

Khalil Brisco is a 4 star linebacker out of Thibodaux High School (Thibodaux, LA). Brisco stands at 5’11” and 215 lbs, with a bench press of 315 and a squat of 435. Brisco possesses an uncanny nose for the football and uses his 4.6 speed to cover side-line to sideline. To compliment Brisco’s amazing speed, he has the strength to shred blocks and bully his way through the line with great arm strength. Along with being a force in neutralizing the run, Brisco excels in pass coverage using his incredible power to jar the ball loose, or his speed to cover the entire field as he swallows up passing lanes.

How old were you when you first started playing football?

What attracted you to the sport at that age? I began playing football when I was around 7 years old. What made me want to get involved was the physicality of the sport. I loved how it allows such a high amount of contact.

Khalil Brisco thibodaux high linebacker ht: 5’11” wt: 215 40: 4.6

class of 2020 by: dan martin

What makes you stand out as a linebacker, and what is an area of play that you believe most linebackers at your level should focus on the most? I’ve always had a great nose for the football. I can cover the entire length of the field, sideline to sideline. I think the most important characteristic for a linebacker is definitely football IQ. Football IQ is something that needs to continuously be worked on, especially when it comes to film. That’s something that guys even at the highest level are always working on.

Is there anything in particular that you have gotten better at as an athlete over the years? My strength has gotten much better.

I’ve been making sure to put in the work in the weight room to make sure of that. Another thing is my speed, I can really tell how much faster I’ve become now that I’m a senior.

Aside from the physical aspects of football, what is something you believe most high school athletes should focus on? Definitely their work in the classroom. There’s so much wasted talent out there with guys who could be really special players, but never get their shot because they don’t take school seriously and can’t qualify.

What motivates you the most on gameday? For me, it’s the doubters. Whether its people you know or the opposing team, there’s always someone doubting you as a player. I keep that in the back of my mind when I’m playing because it really adds fuel to my fire. I feed off of the hate.

How would your coaches and teammates describe you as an athlete? They would consider me a ball hawk. Like I said earlier, I’m always around the ball, no matter where the play is I’m going to find the football and make a play.

Is there an athlete in college or the NFL that you look up to the most and that you model your game after? My favorite athletes are Ray Lewis, Devin White, and Jamal Adams. I see myself most in Devin White. I love his speed and his ability to cover the entire field.

What is the hardest part about playing linebacker? Reading the line of scrimmage. You really have to focus in on everyone because it’s important to recognize their blocking schemes.

Is there anything person or thing in particular that serves as your motivation to play football? It’s all about making my family proud of me. That’s what keeps me going. I love setting an example for my family members by staying and showing my character on the field.

Michael Cerniauskas is a safety from Baton Rouge, Louisiana in the 2021 class. The junior, who plays for Catholic High School stands at 5’11 and comes in at a brawny 188 pounds. The rangy safety has the physicality to make receivers pay for coming across the middle, and the speed and vision to make quarterbacks regret that split second hesitation in throwing a pass. The junior tells me he squats 335, benches 255, and power cleans 280. Those are some big numbers for a 16 year old.

When did you start playing football? I started playing football in second grade, we had a little flag football team at St. Jude. In third grade, I started really playing tackle.

What do you really love about football? I love the physicality. I love being over the top, over the middle, in coverage. I love flying around on defense and being able to hit people. I love the sense of camaraderie and building life-long relationships while in it.

Michael Cerniauskas catholic b/r high safety ht: 5’11” wt: 188

Did you always play safety or did you play any other positions?

Coming in freshman year from middle school, I played quarterback. So, I got to Catholic thinking ‘hey I might try out quarterback’ and I was always more of a runner at quarterback than I was a thrower. So when I got to high school, on the freshman team, I wasn’t the best thrower on the team. I didn’t get picked for the starting job, and for me the biggest thing was, I just wanted to play. I didn’t care where, so I made the switch over to safety my freshman year and went from there.

Did you play any other sports growing up? I played baseball up until my freshman year, and I ran track in middle school. I did the 100 and 200 for track.

What style of play do you feel best describes you? I think physical, I like a lot of contact. I make plays on the ball too, but I think physicality is definitely my biggest trait.

Who is a player in the NFL that you kind of model your game after? Kam Chancellor is one guy I have always looked up to; he’s a big physical player, and I’ve always watched him. I saw him as a guy that knew how to play and knew his stuff really well.

class of 2021 by: josh sibley

Going into this year, what are some of your goals? I think our goals for me, and our team especially, are just real simple. Just doing our job. For me it is just doing my job each week, day in and day out. As a team, we just take it one week at a time, and at the end of the year we’ll be where we need to be.

Off the field, who are some of your biggest influences? Definitely my parents, my family, my coaches. They all play a big role in keeping me in line, and just checking on me with life, and just in general.

What do you think is one of the biggest strengths in your game play? I do a lot of studying pre-game, studying film. I do a lot of that during the week, so I feel like every time I go into a game I have a leg up on that opponent. Because, I’m looking and I kind of know what is coming, that allows me to be in the right spot to make a physical play.

Speaking of being in the right spot at the right time, you had a big pick six against Karr, walk me through that. Yes sir, I was the middle of the field safety, and I was playing my divider, how I’ve been taught to play it. We had schemed them up really well that week, and had their number, and knew where it was coming. We had a great play call in.

37

Donovan Johnson is a 4 star safety out of Helen Cox High School in Harvey, LA. Johnson stands at 6’2”, 185 lbs with a bench press of 240 lbs and a squat of 425 lbs. Donovan has excellent football IQ and an equally impressive intelligence off the football field, scoring a 24 on the ACT. Johnson’s skills as both a run stopper and excellent defender in zone and man coverage make him a headache for opposing quarterbacks. Johnson possesses exceptional speed as well as a great ability to catch the football, making him a threat for interceptions anytime opposing quarterbacks look his way. Donovan is a current University of Virginia commit and invitee to the Louisiana Gridiron Football All-Star game.

Donovan Johnson Helen Cox High safety ht: 6’2” wt: 185 act: 24 class of 2020

by: dan martin

What made you get into football? When and what age? I began playing when I was just 4 years old, mainly through my mother. She used to play catch with me in the yard and was always willing to do that for me. Also, I grew up hearing stories about how great of an athlete my father was. He was killed when I was 6 years old, so it motivated me to play for him but also to go out and make a name for myself. I have a younger brother as well, so football was a good way for me to be a good role model to my younger brother coming from a single parent household.

What is your favorite part about the game? Playing with people I love and trust. Special teams is probably the most fun part of the game for me as it played a key role in growing my love of the sport as I started playing special teams my freshman year. Also, I just love watching my teammates get better over time and develop as athletes.

Do you have any superstitions or pre-game rituals? I pop one of my dreads out and put it in my sock every game. This was something I started doing because I began to grow my hair out in honor of my father. This way, I feel like he is always with me during a game.

Another thing I do before a game is get extremely quiet. A lot of my coaches and teammates will ask me, “what’s wrong” but it’s really just a way for me to block out all the noise and gather my thoughts to be focused on the game.

What are some ways that you believe you show leadership on and off the field? I’ve always been a leader since sophomore year being a 3 year starter. Outside of the field I like to set examples by always staying in class, dressing appropriately, and doing what is expected of me as a student. I believe it is very important to set an example in school. During practice, I show leadership by always practicing at game speed. I think that shows the younger guys the importance of giving it your all even if it’s just practice because that will translate onto the field during real-time games. Also, during a game, you have to make plays to show you’re a force of leadership.

When it comes to playing defensive back, what is the hardest aspect of playing the position? Hardest part is cover 2. Covering those seams can be difficult because always have to be on the same page as the safety alongside you.

What is the easiest thing that comes naturally? My vision. I am always scanning left to right, eyeing the quarterback. I am also always focused on the receivers and their cuts. I like to keep a field general role, keeping everything in front of me.

Who is your favorite player in football? Jalen Hurts and Malik Hooker. I also grew up watching and admiring Ed Reid, who’s up there as one of the best safeties I’ve seen. I was actually able to meet Mr. Reid and text back and forth with him regularly for advice. He’s been a great source of wisdom and an excellent role model.

D’Ante Gallashaw is 4 star running back out of Leesville High School. Gallashaw stands at 5’11” and 190lbs, with a bench press of 285, and a squat of 465. D’Ante possesses great speed, with an incredible amount of strength to compliment his quickness.

Along with Gallashaw’s effectiveness on the ground, D’Ante is equally dangerous through the air as a receiving back. Along with being an outstanding athlete, D’ante is a role model student-athlete who excels in the classroom, maintaining a 3.3 GPA. Outside of football, D’Ante is a multi-sport athlete as a member of his high school’s track team as well as being a powerlifter. D’Ante is also a member of Jobs For American Graduates and is extremely active in his community.

How long have you been playing football? What got you interested in the sport? I started playing when I was 10 years old. My mother is the one put me into it and was extremely supportive when I began playing. What got me interested initially was the physicality of the game, I loved that.

Have you always played RB? Other positions? I was always very fast and powerful so I started off playing running back, but I also played quarterback when I was younger. While at quarterback I was used a lot in the run game and it was always something I thrived at.

D’Ante Gallashaw leesville high running back ht: 5’11” wt: 190 gpa: 3.3

How would you describe yourself as a running back? What is your style of play? I’d describe myself as extremely well balanced, quick and powerful. I am not the type of back to tip-toe in the backfield. I look for a lane and charge forward, looking for yard after contact.

What NFL or College back do you see yourself in terms of play style? Adrian Peterson, for sure. He’s extremely powerful and not afraid of contact. I see a lot of myself in AP. Do you have a favorite type of play? It’s called Gut. Its essentially a HB Dive and the play call really showcases my patience, no tiptoeing, and since YAC (yards after carry) is my strongest quality, it is the perfect play call to feature my skill sets.

What is the most underrated quality you possess as a back? I am an excellent receiving back with great hands. I think that versatility is a great quality to possess as a RB. Pair that with how strong I am, with my speed that allows me to always get the edge.

class of 2020 by: dan martin

If not RB, what position would you be interested in playing?

On defense I’d like to play corner because my father played corner in college at NSU. He always instilled in me the importance of being a versatile athlete, and also having knowledge on both sides of the ball.

Are you involved in any other sports? At my high school I run track, and I am also on the powerlifting team. Last year I went to State for both track and powerlifting, where I placed 2nd in relay for track and 5th in powerlifting.

Do you have a favorite part of practice? Game time? For practice, I love using that as an opportunity to get myself into the right mindset and I really enjoy our warm ups. I actually love practice because I can keep the tempo high, which carries over into the game. I love our consistency during game time. We never keep our heads down, and are always looking to redeem ourselves and keep improving.

39

Vincent Hall is a 6’4”, 300lb offensive tackle out of Woodlawn High in Shreveport, LA. Vincent’s size on the line almost always puts him at an advantage against his opponents, but what is more impressive is the speed Hall possesses for a young man of his stature. Hall thrives in outside zone run blocking, where his quickness paired with his huge frame makes him ideal at the tackle position. Along with great size and speed, Vincent showcases excellent hands, allowing him to create exceptional separation with his long, powerful arms. Stout footwork, elite stamina, and a great football IQ make Hall one of the best linemen in the state for the class of 2020.

Vincent Hall is currently committed to the University of Louisiana Monroe, and plans to play in the Louisiana Gridiron Football AllStar game this December.

How long have you been playing football? What got you into it?

I’ve been playing since watching my cousins play and practice football since I was 10 years old. One of the coaches that my cousins played for noticed my size and approached me about trying out and getting involved in the sport after they noticed my size at such a young age.

Vincent Hall

How has your view on the sport changed from when you were young? I now see the game as a lot more serious. I look at the injuries, impact on the body, and know that I have to be more cautious now than I was when I first began at 10 years old. Also, the game is far more aggressive and competitive at the high school level, but that’s a change I love.

what age did you or your coaches realize you were special? woodlawn Shreveport At Was there a certain play or factor? Around my 7th grade year. I played 2 middle school games and was immediately noticed by the offensive line varsity coaches, who spoke with me after the game, telling me I could have a great future in football. ht: 6’4” How would you describe your play style as a lineman? Aggressive, pass, or run blocking? Balanced? I see myself as an aggreswt: 300 sive, outside zone blocker. I love getting to the edges and throwing my body in front of defenders. As far as my specialty I believe I am well balanced, but I personally prefer run blocking because of how physical it is. I prefer going after guys as opposed to letting them come to me when pass blocking.

class of 2020 by: dan martin

What advantages do you possess over other high school players at your position? Besides my size, I’m not afraid to go against anyone, regardless of their size. If someone is six inches shorter than me I’ll treat them the same as someone who is six inches taller than me. I view everyone as the same and focus on my game What is surprising about your play style or physical attributes that most people don’t realize? My drive to go down field. I’m a big guy but I have great stamina for my size. A lot of times in a game I’ll look to my coaches and tell them to keep running behind me. I don’t get winded easily and rarely need a break.

How would your coaches and teammates describe you as an athlete or person? The coaches and my teammates praise my leadership skills. Because of that, I have to remember to set an example whether I’m reacting to a play or guiding the younger guys. It’s important to show the team how to keep your cool no matter what.

Do you have any hobbies outside of football?

Tyran Cassie, a 4-star running back, plays for Assumption High School and grew up in Napoleonville, Louisiana. He is the definition of a student-athlete as he scored an impressive 20 on his ACT and finished with a 2.9 GPA which he is looking to improve. Tyran squats 465 pounds, benches 300, and was rated 10/10 on his footwork. In talking with Tyran, it is clear he is leader both on and off the field so it was no surprise to hear he was awarded First Team All-District. This young man looks to inspire others, better himself, and be connected within his community beyond the game of football. Be sure to keep your eyes on Tyran Cassie!

When did you start playing football and what made you stick with it? “I started playing football when I was 4 years old, and I am in love with it. I got to have it. It is just the feeling and I like playing because it takes my mind off a lot of things and it makes me feel good.”

How has football helped you most? “Well to be honest it made me a better person because a lot of people look up to me. A lot of little kids and older people are always telling me that I am doing and I am a nice young man. I talk to a lot of coaches and I think my personality.”

Tyran Cassie Assumption high Running back ht: 5’11” wt: 205 gpa: 2.9

class of 2020 by: danielle baca

You said a lot of kids look up to you, so what words of advice do you have for them? “Do good in school and keep your grades up.

Keep grinding even outside of football by lifting weights, running and working out but keep up with your schoolwork because that should be the main priority.”

Since school was mentioned, have you thought about a college major? “Yes, Kinesiology because I want to come be the head coach at Assumption High and you know come back to make it an even better place.”

How have your coaches impacted you? “They push me…all day, every day.”

What qualities make you a good teammate or leader on the field?

“Everybody knows that I am always willing to work whether its lifting or on the field. Everybody wants to workout with me because I guess they just like me and look up to me. I even have other seniors that look up to me on the team.”

What is a personal goal and a team goal you have for this season?

“Well my personal goal to rush for 1,500-2,000 yards but my team goal is for everyone to play together, don’t doubt one another, and play hard as a team.”

What things have you been working on to play at the next level?

“I would say my personality and my actions because I used to be a little childish before, but now I am more mature and that happened last year. I mean you can see on and off the field with me because I take everything serious and understand there is a time to have fun.”

Do you have any hobbies outside of football or do you play other sports? “Yes, the other things I do are powerlifting which I am actually pretty good at and I used to play baseball but I gave that up to really focus on football. There were a lot of showcases and I got invited to a lot of colleges around baseball season. Honestly, one of my favorite hobbies outside of football is fishing. I love it and I go with my dad all the time. We have talks about football, the future, and college all the time.”

What is your biggest motivation? “I would say my mom because she knows me like the back of her hand. It would have to be her like she knows when something is wrong and she tells me to keep my head up, keep moving forward, and don’t let anything hold you back.”

41

Coaches, nutritionists and athletes of all ages and at all levels of competition can feel confident knowing that GPS products have been tested for banned substances, are safe to consume and are of the highest quality.

CONTACT ME: NA M E

WEBSITE:

Call For More Information: PHON E E M A I L 985-507-9924 Coach Darin Moore (HC Pineville High) Coach Andy Bryson (DC Lacombe Cardinals) 985-789-9351

1

January 2019

Subscribe Today The Only Monthly Football Magazine In Louisiana For One Low Price Of $49.95 You get 13 Issues Including Our Recruiting Special

Call Andrew Bryson (985) 789-9351

LouisianaGridironFootball@gmail.com 132 Hummell Ave Suite C Denham Springs, La 70726

The Louisiana Gridiron Football All-Star Bowl Game showcases the top talent from and around the state of Louisiana on a national stage. Louisiana has some of the best talent in the country and this we will show the world.

We are proud to announce that we have secured two of the top high school coaches in Louisiana, Hall-of-Fame coach Dennis Dunn (North Desoto High School) and Hall-of-Fame Player now coach Eric Randall (baker High School). We also are proud to announce guest coaches such as former LSU great and Washington Redskin Offensive lineman Trey Langley, also former LSU Safety and Seattle Seahawk Tharold Simon.

After a successful first year at Louisiana College in 2018, the 2019 All-Star Bowl is looking up to be even bigger and better.

5

28