We Speak Football

Beyond The Whistle: How Mason Kennedy Is Preparing For High School Football In The Off-Season

Published

12 months ago

May 17, 2025

Atlanta, GA – At just 14 years old, Mason Kennedy is already making waves on the football field. The standout 8th-grade linebacker has quickly built a reputation for his versatility, quickness, and great work ethic. Playing for the North Clayton Middle School Tigers, Kennedy recorded 40 tackles, 2 forced fumbles, and 1 pick-six. Standing 5’8 , Kennedy combined his physicality and high football IQ to consistently put himself in the right position to make big plays.

We Speak Media Sports would like to introduce you to Mason Kennedy.

Mason, how do you balance training with academics and personal life?
I prioritize by planning ahead using a calendar or planner to schedule my workouts, study sessions, and important personal time. I also make time to rest and spend time with family and friends so I don’t burn out. Staying focused on my goals helps me stay motivated, even when things get busy.

Who do you train with during the off-season? Do you have a mentor or trainer?
My mentor is my father, we plan my workouts and meals together. My mom helps by meal prepping, and l’ve had an amazing trainer for years. I can’t give you his name though… I can’t reveal all my secrets!

What’s your favorite part about football that keeps you coming back?
The thing that keeps me coming back is the adrenaline and physicality. There’s nothing like the rush of competition and the feeling of pushing my body to the limit. It’s where I feel most alive.

How do you stay mentally sharp and focused when games aren’t being played?
Watching film and staying locked in helps me stay focused, even when games aren’t scheduled.

What college or post-high school football goals do you have?
My goal post high school is to attend LSU or the University of Georgia. I’d love to get drafted, but if that doesn’t happen, I want to open my own training facility and help the next generation of athletes reach their full potential.

What kind of diet or nutrition plan are you following now?
Right now l’m focused on clean bulking, so l’m eating a lot of high-protein meals with quality carbs and healthy fats.

What lessons did you take away from last season?
The lessons I took away from last season were that every thing happens for a reason, and you can improve off your mistakes.

Is there a moment from last season that stands out to you?
A moment that stands out is earning MVP in the state championship it was a proud reminder of the work I’ve put in.

How do you deal with pressure and expectations from coaches or peers?
I deal with pressure by staying grounded and remembering my limits. I stay mindful of what I can control, pace myself, and focus on progress not perfection. That helps me stay locked in without burning out.

Are there any teammates you think will have a breakout season next year?
He’s not my teammate, but Xorian Myton aka Dash. I think he’s going to have a big breakout year next season. His potential is crazy.

Have you been contacted by any recruiters or started thinking about your next steps?
I’ve been contacted by several high school coaches, and my next step is to gain more exposure. I’m focused on showcasing my talent, staying consistent, and making sure the right people see my work.

What are you most excited about for the upcoming season?
I’m most excited to showcase my skills. Playing at the high school level is a big step, and I’m looking forward to the competition and the exposure. I’ve been working hard and preparing for this moment.

How are you staying in shape during the off-season?
I work out and run everyday. I try to eat clean and by just simply staying active.

Are you watching or studying any pro or college players for inspiration?
I study film on Ray Lewis.

What motivates you to keep pushing during the off-season?
My siblings motivate me because I want to be the best role model for them and show them what’s possible with hard work.

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We Speak Football

From Preparation to Domination: Why Safety Dashaun Morris II Refuses to Be Outworked or Outshined on the Football Field

Published

8 months ago

September 2, 2025

We Speak Sports

When it comes to football, few young athletes bring the same blazing passion, intensity, and razor-sharp focus as Dashaun Morris II, the undefeated #1 safety in Georgia’s Class of 2030, and a standout safety for Grayson Middle School. Known for his fearless play, sharp instincts, and relentless drive to succeed, Dashaun has already begun carving out a reputation as one of the toughest competitors on the field. As the last line of defense, he thrives under pressure—whether delivering big hits, reading the quarterback’s eyes, or stepping up in clutch moments to swing momentum in his team’s favor. Beyond his physical talent, what truly sets Dashaun apart is his unmatched work ethic and mental preparation, which make him a true leader for his teammates and a player opponents always have to account for. With a growing list of accomplishments—highlighted by his status as Georgia’s top Class of 2030 safety—and an unwavering commitment to his craft, Dashaun is proving that his name is one to remember in the world of football.

What’s your favorite thing about playing football?
I love going to war with my teammates to dominate our opponents. It’s us vs. them.

How do you get yourself in the right headspace before a game?
Listen to music and I meditate a lot.

If you could accomplish one thing before the season ends, what would it be?
I want to get a pick 6, offensive TD, and a punt return in one game.

How do you want your teammates and coaches to remember you this season?
That I’m the hardest worker and most prepared player on the field every week.

How do you push yourself when conditioning gets really tough?
I can’t let the guy next to me outwork me, so I go harder than him.

Do you have a pre-game routine or ritual?
I warm up, go over my reads, and always take a piece of grass or turf from every new stadium I go into.

What’s your proudest moment on the football field?
Actually getting my Under Armour 8th grade gold ticket invite at the UA camp.

Do you think diet makes a difference in your performance? Why or why not?
Most def, ’cause your body is your temple and you gotta feed it correctly to get it to perform.

Who’s your football role model, and what about them do you try to model your game after?
Honestly, it’s my dad who played college football at Delaware State University. He’s the most obsessed and focused athlete I’ve ever seen, so I model my preparation after him.

Which skill do you think separates you from other players at your position?
My mind. Nobody is more prepared than me. I watch so much film that throughout a game I’m knowing the majority of the offensive play calls.

If you could give one piece of advice to someone new to football, what would it be?
Don’t step on the field if you’re not willing to lay it all on the line in between the lines.

How do you handle the pressure when the game is on the line?
I just do me.

What’s the best lesson a coach has ever taught you?
You don’t always get what you deserve, and just make a play when your number is called.

How do you stay motivated to condition during the off-season?
I think about who’s out there training to dominate me, and I can’t let that happen, so I lock in.

How do you respond to trash talk on the field?
Ion really talk much. I just knock you out if the chance presents itself. I just play ball.

What matchup are you personally most looking forward to?
Looking to play Collins Hill again. Lost a close one.

Off the field, what hobbies keep you balanced outside of football?
I like to skate.

What role does your team’s energy play in keeping everyone focused during a game?
It’s important, ’cause that energy takes your game to the next level most times.