We Speak Football

Da’Kyla Hall: Dominating Flag Football with Leadership, Legacy, and Drive

Published

1 week ago

July 3, 2025

Da’Kyla Hall is a force on the flag football field, known for her leadership, versatility, and relentless drive to dominate. As captain of the Simeon Girls Flag Football team and a standout playmaker for HTA, she lines up wherever her team needs her—whether it’s at wide receiver, rusher, running back, cornerback, or middle linebacker. A proud recipient of both the Chicago Bears ChangeMaker Scholarship and the Simeon Alumni 1994 Scholarship, Da’Kyla represents excellence on and off the field. Her journey is fueled by faith, community, and the deep belief that every time she straps on her cleats, she has a purpose—to lead, to inspire, and to leave her mark.

What inspired you to start playing football, and how did you get involved with 7-on-7 or Flag Football?
My coach, who is also my school counselor, came to me with the idea of playing flag football. I never played a sport in elementary school, so I was nervous. I became a full-on athlete my sophomore year. After the first flag practice, I knew this is where I belong.

How has playing in the Elite 7-on-7 or Flag Football program helped shape your identity as a player?
Flag Football has done more for me than shaped my identity—this sport helped me find myself. When I lace up my cleats, I feel I have a reason, and that is to DOMINATE the game. This sport has helped me see things about myself that I would’ve never seen without it.

How do you prepare mentally for big tournaments?
I pray and listen to music. “Let your faith be bigger than your fear.”

What’s your pregame routine or hype music?
Do It Anyway – Erica Manson
My pregame routine mostly consists of talking to my teammates, seeing how they feel.

What’s your mindset when you step onto the field?
DOMINATE THE GAME. NO ONE IS BETTER THAN YOU. MAKE YOUR MARK AND LET THIS TEAM REMEMBER YOU. I always want to be the player that when the other team goes back to discuss their game plan, they know about #9 Da’Kyla Hall.

How do you stay motivated during the off-season and intense training periods?
My village and mindset. A lot of times it’s mind over matter in the off-season—you have to WORK, and not just when you want, but constantly. My village always reminds me of who I am, and that makes me work harder. Also, being a winner of the Chicago Bears ChangeMaker Scholarship keeps me motivated. I know I have many to make proud.

Who is your biggest influence on or off the field and why?
My biggest influencer on and off the field is multiple people: Erin Pruitt, Tytannie Harris, and my mom. These 3 women have stuck with me through it all and always reminded me of the reasons I started. These women have shown amazing examples of women in the sports industry and I truly respect it. My coach Erin Pruitt never gave up on me. My coach Tytannie Harris always showed me the light at the end of every tunnel and gave me that boost of energy. My mom Erica Hall has always been in my corner supporting any decision I choose. Thank you!

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned through this program?
“Every obstacle is an opportunity in disguise.” Whatever is thrown in your way, trust me—if you overcome it, your opportunities lie within.

How do the coaches and mentors in this program impact your development?
My coach built the foundation! In high school, I had 5 African-American women coaches. These ladies set the tone and standard. The dedication and love that came from them was like an incredible light no one can dull. These coaches helped build me into the player I am, and they’re building a legacy.

What does it mean to you to represent your team in Elite 7-on-7 or Flag Football tournaments?
It means a lot to me! I feel representation is the most important part. It shows what you learned and who you learned it from. Representing HTA and Simeon Girls Flag Football team—I just knew I had something in me.

How do you bounce back after a tough loss or mistake?
I reflect on what I could have done better as a player and learn from it. As a captain, I check in with my teammates and coaches to see how we can dominate our next opponent. WE LEARN AS ONE!

What motivates you to keep grinding during the off-season?
Just the thought of knowing that I’m a part of something that’s becoming so huge—and a lot of people thought that women couldn’t do—keeps me grinding every day. Going to the girls’ practice during the summer shows me the legacy I’m continuing. That motivation is a different kind of feeling.

What’s your dream school or team you’d love to play for one day?
I don’t have a dream school, but I am extremely excited and committed to University of Saint Francis in Fort Wayne, Indiana!!

What do you do for fun when you’re not playing football?
I like to swim and chill, also hang out with my friends. Being an athlete is kind of hard—there’s a lot of things you’ll miss out on because you’re trying to get the work, and that’s OKAY. A lot of athletes struggle with not being there for the important moments, and I know because I’m one of them.

How have your coaches and parents helped you grow as a player and a person, both on and off the field?
My coaches and mom always motivate me. My coaches played a huge part because they helped me find myself on the field and off the field. Constant reassurance, energy, determination—they have it all! There’s nothing like a coach’s love that feels more like family. My mom always reminds me that no one will do it for me—I have to put in the work and time. She always showed me what a hardworking woman is, providing for me and my sister, and that’s something I will forever carry throughout my life.

How do you handle pressure or adversity during high-stakes games?
“Let your faith be bigger than your fear. This is another game, but you play 10x harder. Make your mark, Da’Kyla.” That’s what I’ll tell myself. The rest of my faith will always be put on my team.

What’s your favorite route to run (or coverage to play) and why?
I love long routes—Go, Post, Corner, etc. My favorite overall would be a Go. The feeling of running straight and catching a ball over your shoulders and running for a touchdown is just a feeling I can’t explain. I love to rush! I love to be the reason why our opponents can’t score.

What are your short-term and long-term football goals?
Short-term goal for flag, I would say, is playing on the USA Football team, and long-term is playing in the 2028 Flag Football Olympics. I cannot wait to accomplish those two!

How do you build chemistry and trust with your teammates in such a fast-paced format?
Being a friend first. As a captain, you’ll struggle with the times to be strict and be a friend—and I did both. My teammates were my friends first because we saw each other around school. I think the team chemistry was there since day one, especially because of our coaches. All we needed was a game.

What advice would you give to younger players who want to join a program like this?
No matter what, try it first. Don’t go off of what you hear or see, but go off the feeling you get on the field. Remember, you are just as good as anyone else you play. Work hard, play hard, and dominate. Leave your mark—make them remember you.

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We Speak Football

Reading the Field, Breaking Down Defenses, Leading the Future: Inside Jamari Walker’s Mindset

Published

4 hours ago

July 12, 2025

We Speak Sports

Jamari Walker is more than just a rising football talent. He’s a dedicated young leader with a relentless drive to be great in every area of life. From the moment he stepped on the field, Jamari showed an uncommon blend of poise, athleticism, and intelligence that set him apart from his peers. Whether he’s commanding the offense as a quarterback or breaking down film to sharpen his football IQ, Jamari approaches the game with maturity well beyond his years. But what truly defines him is his discipline and the balance he maintains between sports, school, and personal growth. With a structured routine that prioritizes academics and strong support from his coaches and mentors, Jamari continues to develop into a well-rounded athlete and person. His off-season work ethic, commitment to continuous improvement, and natural leadership make him a standout both on and off the field. As he trains, competes, and builds toward his goals, one thing is clear. Jamari Walker isn’t just preparing for the next season, he’s preparing to leave a legacy.

How do you balance training with academics and personal life?
For Jamari, balance starts with structure and support. We keep a consistent schedule that prioritizes school first. Academics are non-negotiable. Training sessions are built around his schoolwork and family time, not the other way around. We also make sure Jamari has time to just be a kid, whether that’s hanging out with friends, playing video games, or relaxing. It’s all about helping him grow not just as an athlete, but as a well-rounded young man.

Are you attending any camps or combines to gain exposure?
Yes, Jamari regularly attends top camps and combines throughout the year to sharpen his skills and gain national exposure. He’s competed in events like the RNR Top 100, where he earned MVP honors, and other elite showcases that bring together some of the best young talent in the country. These opportunities not only push him to compete at a high level, but also help him build relationships and get recognized by coaches and brands.

Who do you train with during the off-season? Do you have a mentor or trainer?
During the off-season, Jamari trains with a strong team that’s fully invested in his development. He works closely with Len Grant, his quarterback coach and head coach, who played the position himself and helps sharpen Jamari’s mechanics, leadership, and decision-making. On the defensive side, Roosevelt Martin, who played at a high level, mentors Jamari on reading coverages and understanding the game from all angles. He also trains regularly with a dedicated speed and conditioning coach to stay fast, explosive, and durable year-round. With this kind of support, Jamari’s always learning and leveling up.

How are you staying in shape during the off-season?
In the off-season, Jamari stays in shape by working consistently with Coach Roosevelt Martin, who handles his speed, strength, and conditioning. They focus on explosive movements, agility, and overall athletic performance to keep him game-ready year-round. Whether it’s drills, footwork, or recovery work, Coach Martin makes sure Jamari is not just staying active, but improving every week. The goal is to come back each season stronger, faster, and more prepared than the last.

What specific goals have you set for yourself before next season?
Before next season, Jamari’s focused on a few key goals. First, he wants to help lead his team back to the Super Bowl and bring home another championship. He’s also working on becoming the best leader he can be on and off the field by encouraging his teammates and setting the example. Staying a student of the game is a big priority too, always learning and getting better. But most importantly, he wants to keep having fun and enjoying every moment of the journey.

Are you working on any particular skills or techniques right now?
Right now, Jamari’s focused on getting better in every area of his game. Whether it’s footwork, throwing mechanics, reading defenses, or leadership, he’s always working to level up. He knows there’s always room to grow, so the goal is to sharpen everything, not just one skill, and become a more complete quarterback every time he steps on the field.

What part of your game do you think improved most last season?
Last season, the biggest improvements in Jamari’s game were his confidence and awareness. He really started to take control of the offense, make smarter decisions, and stay calm under pressure. His ability to read the field and understand what the defense was doing took a big step forward, and that helped him play faster and more confidently every game.

What lessons did you take away from last season?
One of the biggest lessons Jamari took away from last season is that preparation and mindset matter just as much as talent. He learned that every game won’t go perfectly, but how you respond, whether it’s bouncing back from a mistake or staying focused when you’re ahead, makes all the difference. He also learned the value of leadership, staying positive, and always putting the team first.

Is there a moment from last season that stands out to you?
The moment that stands out most from last season was the Super Bowl. All the hard work, practices, and ups and downs of the season led up to that game. Jamari stepped up as a leader and gave it everything he had. Being able to compete at the highest level and come out on top with his team was an unforgettable experience and it motivated him to work even harder for next season.

What motivates you to keep pushing during the off-season?
I want to be great.

How do you stay mentally sharp and focused when games aren’t being played?
Jamari stays mentally sharp in the off-season by staying locked in with film study, going over past games, and learning from both the good and the bad. He also works on his playbook, studies defenses, and talks through situations with his coaches. Off the field, he keeps a positive mindset by staying disciplined, setting goals, and surrounding himself with people who push him to be his best, even when there’s no game on the line.

Are you watching or studying any pro or college players for inspiration?
Yes, Jamari watches a lot of football and studies both pro and college quarterbacks for inspiration. He looks up to guys like Lamar Jackson for his playmaking ability, Cam Newton for his energy and leadership, and Peyton Manning for how he reads defenses and controls the game. He also watches Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders to see how younger QBs are dominating at the college level. He picks up little things from each of them to add to his own game.