Shamon
Shamon Coleman
Coleman Story By:
Jen Hunsaker
T
alking with Shamon “Shooby” Coleman is a joy. He’s determined, focused, homegrown, and grounded by his roots. Shooby plays football on the varsity team at Gainesville High School and has plans to transfer to Williston High School. His leadership is already on full display. Last season ended with the Gainesville High Hurricanes as the district champs. What made the difference? “We came together early and worked together in the classroom, on the field, and in the weight room. We had a great team bond.” They really embraced what their coach, Dock Pollard, instilled in them from the beginning: COE, which means Culture Over Everything.
My best friend and I go back to help with the small stuff. It’s the small stuff that makes a change. - Shamon Coleman
“We really developed a culture of brotherhood.” For Shooby, that brotherhood extends beyond his team on the football field. When he has time, he makes his way back to his middle school to help the boys’ basketball team at practice. “My best friend and I go back to help with the small stuff. It’s the small stuff that makes a change.” Shooby’s own life has been influenced by three men who took the time to mentor Shooby, so much so that Coleman’s desire to give back to his community seems almost second nature or instinctual.
His first mentor was his uncle who passed away when Shooby was only three. “I have very clear memories as a three-year-old of my uncle playing with me in the yard. He told my mother and grandmother that I was going to be something special. His belief has had a big impact on my life.” Shooby found his next mentor in the fourth grade. Chris Reid is the current Family Liaison for Williams Elementary and runs a club for fourth and fifth grade boys called Distinguished Gentlemen where the boys learn how to carry themselves. Even among these standout mentors, Shooby’s biggest inspiration is his dad, Stephen. He was Shooby’s first coach and continues to be one of his biggest sideline cheerleaders. “He always coached me when I was young. Even when he’s not my coach, I wonder what he would have said. He always encouraged me to be myself and a leader for the team. I know that I set the example.” Beyond his big dreams to go to college and the NFL, Shooby’s most impressive goals are to work hard and give back. To pay for football camps and equipment, he supplements donations with his own lawn care business. He’s able to cut up to 25 yards for a couple months before practice takes over his schedule. Coleman doesn’t take any of it for granted: his talent, his mentors, or the support of his community. He seems poised to make a big impact wherever he lands. gainesvilleblackprofessionals.com
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