Kameron Casnave '26 Recruiting Profile

From a young age, my father instilled in me the importance of how a black man presents himself in a society marred by racial inequalities. He taught me to navigate spaces with a smile, to be mindful of my appearance, and to exercise caution in various situations. The lessons he imparted were meant to protect me, to prepare me for the injustices that exist, and to emphasize the need for resilience and determination. The rise of the Black Lives Matter movement in recent years has further highlighted the urgency of addressing systemic racism and its impact on marginalized communities.

When I made the transition from a public school to a predominantly white private school as a twelve-year-old, I encountered firsthand the challenges and prejudices that awaited me. On my very first day, I faced racial slurs and was made to feel like an outsider. My father's teachings had prepared me for such encounters, but it didn't diminish the anger and sense of isolation I felt. However, amidst the negativity, I also experienced the power of allies. Another student witnessed the incident and reported it, leading to an apology from the offender. While the apology may have been superficial, it served as a reminder that individuals can make a difference by standing up against injustice.

Over the past three years at Northlake Christian High School, I have grown stronger in the face of adversity. I have encountered racial slurs, negative stereotypes, and ignorant questions about my identity, but I refuse to let these define me. Instead, I choose to focus on my goals and dreams, recognizing that my accomplishments and character can serve as a testament to the strength and resilience of black excellence.

Football has been my sanctuary, where I have found solace, purpose, and the opportunity to rewrite narratives. Even as an eighth-grader, I had the privilege of playing in two varsity games for Northlake. When I became a freshman running back on the varsity team, I dedicated myself to honing my skills both on and off the field. My hard work paid off as I contributed significantly to our team's success, as a freshman breaking the single-season touchdown record at Northlake with 23 touchdowns, finishing with 246 carries, 1,333 yards rushed helping secure our first district title in years. Through my athletic achievements, I have witnessed a shift in how others perceive me. Football has allowed my peers to see beyond societal stereotypes and acknowledge my true potential, bridging gaps and fostering understanding.

However, I understand that my journey is not solely defined by sports. As a freshman at Northlake, I faced the challenge of balancing academic responsibilities with the demands of football season. Determined to maintain high grades, I sought help when needed, attending study hall sessions and working with tutors to excel academically. I embraced the importance of time management and sought support from my family and extended family, who have been unwavering pillars of strength throughout.

As I look toward the future, I am excited by the opportunities that lie ahead. College represents a chance to further my education, pursue my athletic passion, and make a lasting impact on and off the field. I am committed to being a student-athlete who upholds integrity, embraces diversity, and strives for excellence. My experiences have fueled my desire to contribute to a college community that values inclusivity and actively works toward dismantling racial barriers.

I stand here today as a young black man, unyielding in my resolve to defy societal expectations and overcome obstacles. I am ready to take on the challenges that await, knowing that my experiences have prepared me to thrive in an environment that celebrates diversity and promotes equality. I am excited to continue my academic and athletic journey in college, where I can utilize my skills and experiences to inspire others and create meaningful change.

Thank you for considering my application. I am confident that my dedication, resilience, and commitment to excellence will make me an asset to any college. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute, learn, and grow as both a student and an athlete.