Personal Statement

My name is Dontae William Goodner, class of 2023 at Richmond Hill High School in Richmond Hill, GA.  I play Defensive Tackle on Varsity, and I currently have a 3.41 GPA. My jersey number is #95. My collegiate ambitions are to graduate with a degree in Criminology and dedicate myself to playing for a strong football program.

I strive to exceed the expectations set before me. I am coachable, confident, and adaptable.  I was BORN to play this sport. I began playing football at the age of six. Having an open mindset allows for me to keep up with new developments, plays, and techniques that are presented to me academically and athletically. I carry myself with respect, humbleness, integrity, and honor, and believe that this is a true reflection of the person I am on and off the field. Being a positive, passionate, and ambitious person, allows for me to contribute positively and assertively with my current team and my future university football team and program of academics.

What sets me apart from others, is the ability to take constructive or negative criticism and use it to fuel myself to work harder and become better each day. I have rigorously worked out daily in the off season, focusing on my technical skills, agility, and strength, to deliver explosive moves on the field. My profound goal is to disrupt and unsettle the offensive line, evaluate, and analyze each play and enable our defensive line to make massive moves. I work well under pressure. I persevere when times are tough and recognize that failing at something has only strengthened my character, especially when working with individuals and my teammates in building relationships. I take pride in my self-motivation, maturity, and commitment to work harder, and encourage those that struggle.  Football has shaped my confidence as an individual, provided me with the skills to problem solve, improve my organizational skills, and implement time management skills across all elements of life.

Being able to participate in athletics has positively impacted and influenced my life.  I have learned to lead, follow, cooperate with others, uplift fellow teammates, train, and give 200% to myself and my team,  in my pursuit of growth and self-betterment. As an athlete, I have learned the value and importance of making good quality life decisions, as I know that every action creates a reaction, every choice will have a consequence, every move towards growth will promote development and progress.  Athletics provides me with a drive and force to succeed academically, as well as athletically.