Personal Statement

My name is Zachary Taylor. I am a starting offensive tackle looking to play next-level football. I throw shot put and discus as well.

     I began my athletic journey when I was 5 years old while living in Japan. As I grew up playing sports I became very competitive not only with the other kids or myself but with my older brother. I started playing sports right after my brother. Our goal was to be the best and beat the other sibling. I played sports in Japan and stopped when I moved back to the States. I moved again and that's when my drive for sports continued, I played travel soccer from 6th grade to 8th grade. Once high school started I played my first JV football game and felt amazing after the win. I knew I wanted to play at the NFL level ever since I was able to say football. Though I played soccer, my heart felt for football. Not only did football create the person I am now but how I understand any lifetime experience. 

I differ from many athletes mentally and physically. I have moved into areas where I have to make a name for myself, work 2 times as hard, and understand the new ways they play and think. This never stopped me from doing my best. My goal is to never impress a coach, my goal is to show the coach who I am on the field and off the field. I previously moved from Virginia, I started playing football with my old team for about 2-3 years. Knowing how they play, how they act, and how to play as a team. Once I came to Georgia this was no barrier for me, this was an opportunity to show coaches the player I am. I showed my new coaches I was able to use my size to not only make plays but to help the guy next to me make it as well. The adjustment was never hard for me, as moving put me into a position where I can lead a team with the skills I have earned. Football has also helped with my other sport, Discus and Shotput. I started 9th grade and made it my goal to go to regionals that year, I did just that. In 10th grade, I made it my mission to not only make it to regionals but make it to states and nationals , I did just that. Football is a part of me and shaped me into a driven young man who is willing to do all I can do to make myself happy.