Personal Statement

My name is Jakin Burk, a 5'9 athlete in the Class of 2020. Although I have excelled in many sports, football has always been my main passion. Having played all through middle and high school, football has taught me discipline, teamwork, and versatility. Positions I’ve played are outside linebacker, wide receiver, running back, and now safety, with wide receiver being my strongest position. I have been a starter on the Varsity Football team since my sophomore year. As a running back and wide receiver I have learned the importance of being attentive to details and the focus it requires in order for the play to be successful. During my senior year, coach recognized my skill and smarts and moved me to safety to strengthen our team’s defense. I am excited that I have been able to capitalize on my speed and agility for quick tackles and interceptions. 

Building strong community and relationships is something that has always been a priority for me. My genuine interest in the needs of my teammates both on and off the field, as well as my love of team unity have been personal traits that have helped me foster meaningful relationships. Having to switch schools twice in the last 5 years shaped me into someone who jumps right into getting to know my teammates on a deeper level and developing relationships that are important for strong team unity. I always keep a positive and humble attitude, strong work ethic, and posture of learning. I never stop learning from those around me and my coaches. My mantra is that I am never satisfied with the status quo but I’m always growing and improving myself. As a result, I have earned the trust of my coaches and teammates to be appointed team leader of one of 8 team “families”. I have also earned the Best Sportsmanship award while on several sports teams, as well as the Biggest Impact award on my high school varsity football team. At Apex Friendship High School, our football team takes time to connect and know one another. We push each other at practice and motivate everyone so that when it comes to game time, we are able to capitalize on each of our strengths, while remaining cognizant of our weaknesses. I am also privileged to have been chosen to be a part of Apex Friendship High School football mentoring program at a local elementary school. I love seeing and calling out the potential in the young boys I interact with.

What sets me apart from other recruits is my grit. My drive. I have worked hard to maintain strong academics as an Honor Roll student with an average of 3 AP classes per year, and my current GPA is 3.87. While overcoming an extremely painful injury and setback from a broken clavicle, I started and am still maintaining my lawn care business for the 4th year in a row. I have over 25 active clients. In the meantime, I have continued to push myself with speed, weight, and agility training on a daily basis. I have kept laser-like focus on my goal to be a successful athlete and entrepreneur. My faith in God is the anchor that keeps me grounded.