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Running Toward Greatness With Heart And Hustle: How A Young Football Star Is Rising Through Teamwork, Talent, And Dedication

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From the first moment Dezmon Cole picked up a football, this young athlete has been driven by passion, family influence, and a relentless desire to improve. A standout on the field with RCU Hitsquad, he’s now preparing to bring that same energy and skill to Stockdick Middle School. With his versatility and commitment to the game, he’s quickly becoming a name to watch in the world of youth football. In this Q&A, Cole shares what motivates him, how he handles pressure, and the lessons he’s learned through 7-on-7 and flag football competition.

Dezmon, what inspired you to start playing football, and how did you get involved with 7-on-7 or Flag Football?
I was inspired to play football by watching my older brother, and growing up watching the NFL. I love the energy of the game. I got involved with 7-on-7 to build my skills and stay active during the off-season.

How has playing in the Elite 7-on-7 or Flag Football program helped shape your identity as a player?
It has helped shape me into a hard worker. It’s pushed me to develop a strong work ethic, and always give my best both on and off the field.

How do you prepare mentally for big tournaments?
I stay focused and get a good night’s sleep the night before. I make sure to stay hydrated by drinking lots of water. It helps me stay sharp and ready to compete.

What’s your mindset when you step onto the field?
My mindset is to lock in and score every time I touch the ball. I stay focused, confident, and ready to make a big impact on every play.

How do you stay motivated during the off-season and intense training periods?
I stay motivated by training hard and watching film to learn and improve. I use the off-season to get better every day and stay ready for game time.

Who is your biggest influence on or off the field and why?
My biggest influence is my dad. He always pushes me to do my best. Seeing how hard he works for our family motivates me to give my all.

What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned through this program?
The most important lesson I’ve learned is that hard work really does pay off. Nothing is handed to you. This program taught me to stay focused, push through challenges, and never give up.

How do the coaches and mentors in this program impact your development?
The coaches help me grow as a player and as a person. They guide me on the right path, push me to improve, and always support my development.

What does it mean to you to represent your team in Elite 7-on-7 or Flag Football tournaments?
It means everything to me. I go out there to give my best and make sure I never let my team down.

How do you bounce back after a tough loss or mistake?
I just focus on getting better. I learn from it, fix what went wrong, and stay ready because I know I’ll probably get another shot to face them again.

What motivates you to keep grinding during the off-season?
My parents motivate me to keep grinding. They push me to improve every day and chase my goals.

What’s your dream school or team you’d love to play for one day?
Texas Longhorns.

What do you do for fun when you’re not playing football?
I listen to music and hang out with my brothers and sister.

How have your coaches and parents helped you grow as a player and a person, both on and off the field?
They’ve helped me by always pushing me to be my best. Coach Pat—may he rest in peace—had the biggest impact. He believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. He saw something in me I didn’t know I had. I miss him every day, and work hard to make him proud.

How do you handle pressure or adversity during high-stakes games?
I stay focused and calm. I have faith in myself and my team.

What’s your favorite route to run (or coverage to play) and why?
Stop and go is my favorite route because of my speed. Most DBs can’t stay with me once I hit that second burst after the fake. It’s a great way to create big plays.

What are your short-term and long-term football goals?
My short-term goal is to get better day by day. My long-term goal is to make it to the NFL.

How do you build chemistry and trust with your teammates in such a fast-paced format?
I build chemistry by helping and communicating with my teammates. I make sure they know they can count on me and that I’ll do whatever it takes to win. I lead by example and always fight for the team.

What advice would you give to younger players who want to join a program like this?
Work hard, stay focused, and put in the work.

Whether you’re a coach, athlete, parent, or sports fan, I’d love to hear from you. Have a story idea? Want to collaborate on coverage? Looking to feature your team or athlete? Use the form below to get in touch.

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

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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.

Whether you’re a coach, athlete, parent, or sports fan, I’d love to hear from you. Have a story idea? Want to collaborate on coverage? Looking to feature your team or athlete? Use the form below to get in touch.

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