Eli Ward '23 Recruiting Profile

Thank you for taking the time to read my personal statement.  

I have played sports the majority of my life starting with t-ball at 4 years old to baseball, football, and wrestling at the high school level.   I have spent countless hours over the years developing my skills to become a stronger and smarter athlete.  I have learned that while I have been blessed with some natural talent, it has taken a lot of hard work and dedication to develop my physical gifts this far and I still have far to go.   Natural talent isn't enough without development though.  My high school football team has not had a lot of success.  I have experienced defeat but I know that athletes should be able to win and lose with grace and humility.  It has been a difficult lesson to learn at times but it has impacted every part of my life.  I am proud of how far I have come, but I know that I will always have more to learn not just in sports but in life as well.  My goal is to remain coachable and to always look for ways to grow in all areas of my life.  

I believe that my experience in other sports such as wrestling and baseball have helped me greatly in football.  The skills that I have worked on have carried over onto the football field.  I am looking forward to trying a new sport this spring (2022).  I plan to throw the shot put and discus for my track team.  

I love the game of football.  I have played on both the offensive and defensive lines.  I believe that I have the skills needed to play at the college level given the chance.   I want to continue to put  in the work on the field and in the classroom so that I can grow into a successful man.  I know that football can help me get to that point.   My family has been instrumental in my sports career and in my life. My mom and dad have had the most impact on my life. They have worked hard to provide for and support me from helping me with my school work to shuttling me to practice or private lessons to taking me to church. I want to continue to honor their dedication to me.   I come from a larger family as the oldest of 5 boys.  I hope to always be a good example for my younger brothers  

I was humbled to receive the honor of 1st team offense for Region 8 AA my junior year (2021). I was also a heavyweight wrestling state qualifier in 2021.  I look forward to my senior year and the growth it brings.   

I enjoy hunting, fishing, going to church, and spending time with my family during my off time.    

Thank you for your time.