Personal Statement

One of the biggest influences in my life has been my grandfather, Charles “Toppy” Owens. He instilled in me a desire to be a leader of strong character on and off the field. He always told me, there are two things completely within my control - my attitude and my effort.

I first became interested in football at a very early age. My grandfather, being a University of Arkansas graduate, life long Razorback fan, and a football coach himself, often took me to games. Going to games with my grandfather was not just entertaining, but an education about the game itself.  Additionally, my father being a former University of Missouri football player and high school football coach, often watched football together and practiced together.

By playing football, I have learned and developed many life skills, including leadership, accountability, responsibility, character, good sportsmanship, and team work.

Although I hope to someday play football professionally, focusing on my academics is a priority for me. I currently have a 3.5 GPA and I am taking steps to, alternatively, have a career in sports medicine.

I’ve had to overcome many obstacles to get where I am today. I was small as a young child, but now I am one of the biggest and strongest juniors at my high school. I didn’t get to play much as a young child, but now I am a starter (and often played for the varsity team my sophomore year). My parents divorced as a young child and subsequently my father moved far away depriving me of the opportunity to learn the game from him - fortunately my mother invested much of her time in me taking me to football camps and trainers. Lastly, but not least of all, my grandfather died a few years ago and I have missed out on his football and life coaching - fortunately my attitude and effort allowed me to overcome these obstacles.

What I want those reading this profile to know about me is this - I am hardworking, honest, dedicated to the sport and academics, leader, and a team player.