Kaden Blackman '24 Recruiting Profile

I have been playing football since I was six years old. Growing up, all I ever wanted to do was play football.  Looking back, I know that the sport has changed me for the better.  Whenever I get my hands on a football, I find happiness and joy, so I have aspired to play at the collegiate level. 

I have strong skills, solid physical defense, mental toughness, and a high football IQ. I am a team leader who tries to lead by example while encouraging my teammates. I am very coachable and assist my coach with leading practices and coaching other teammates to success. I strive to be one of the hardest-working players and the hardest-working recruits you'll find. 

I work hard year-round on my skills and strength, which includes playing basketball during the off-season.  Participating in several community youth leagues, tournaments, and clinics over the years, along with track and lifting in the weight room, all contributed to my athleticism.  In the classroom, I study hard and maintain a steady GPA. I also volunteer at a local youth football league during the summers and as a mentor to youth through the local church.

I want to attend a college where I can push myself both on the field and in the classroom.  I have a strong desire to work hard every day at school and in athletics so I can play football for four more years in college.  I want to become a great role model to all my peers in my community and make my parents proud.

2020 was a particularly challenging year in which I was entering and attending my 9th grade school year remotely due to the pandemic.  I could only play football and basketball in a modified and limited capacity.  However, that experience showed me how to be patient and persevere through the most challenging situations, molding me to be a better student-athlete.  Heading into my Sophomore year and each year thereafter, I became more dedicated and worked even harder to prove that I could overcome any setback.

Being a student-athlete taught me about hard work, dedication, and how to love something that makes me a better person.  I know that playing in college is a once in a lifetime opportunity that could change my whole life.  It would allow me to participate in something that lifts my spirits and gives me as much as I put into it.