D.I.T.R: Shamaar Darden – Safety

Shamaar Darden is a 6’2″ 170 pound safety at Tupelo High School. Darden is a very intelligent defensive back that makes an impact on the field every play. Shamaar’s speed at the safety position allows for him to stay in coverage against wide receivers without losing ground. His size allows for him to contain larger receivers and tight ends. Darden’s Head Coach Ty Hardin said, “He is one of the best safeties in the state of Mississippi if not the entire south.” Shamaar had the chance to take an interview to talk about his football career so far and more:

Q: Can you tell me a little bit about yourself, and about where you grew up?

I am from Tupelo, Mississippi. I was born and raised in Oklahoma, Mississippi and I have been playing football since I’d say 6 years old.

Q: Do you play any sports other than football?

This year I did not play any other sports. Next year I plan on playing basketball as well as football. Currently, I am working out for football in the offseason – just trying to get bigger and better.

Q: What are some of your favorite parts of playing the safety position in football?

I get to be a ballhawk. I get to go get the ball wherever its at. Tackling is also one of my favorite parts – I love getting to hit.

Q: Who is someone you idolize on the football field at your position, whether it is a current or former player?

Jamal Adams

Q: What is something you have learned from football that you can translate to the rest of your life?

That I get to play with guys that you never would have known, but come together as a brotherhood. I’ll have these guys the rest of my life and they will have me.

Q: What is one of the biggest challenges you have faced playing football, and how did you overcome that?

There was one game we played, we were down by well over 20 points at half and were being shut out. We stuck together as a team, came out in the second half, ended up coming back and winning the game.

Q: What are some attributes you believe you have that make you an impact athlete on the field?

I would say my toughness, and being able to be a leader for my team. Whatever the team is going through when they are down, I will keep mine head up.

Q: How would your teammates describe you?

They would say I am a good player. A funny player thats always having fun, and a nice person that is good to be around.

Q: What are some dream colleges, or colleges you would like to visit?

Just to rattle off a few I would say: Mississippi State, Tennessee, Tulane, Ole Miss, and Alabama.

Q: What are some of the biggest things you are looking forward to for your senior season at Tupelo in 2023?

I am looking forward to winning a State Championship.

Shamaar Darden is one of the most impressive safeties in the state of Mississippi. This powerful, hard-hitting leader will be suiting up for Tupelo High School one more season to prove he is one of the best. Shamaar hopes to lead the reigning top defense in Mississippi to a state title in 2023.