Diamond in the Rough: Joshua Coleman

Joshua Coleman is a class of 2021 receiver and linebacker who plays for Springfield High School in Springfield, Louisiana. Coleman stands at 6’0” and weighs 195. He first started playing football at a young age, going on to play on the Varsity team for New Caney High School in New Caney, Texas. Josh then moved to Springfield where we he continues to play not only varsity football, but also plays basketball and runs track. Coleman has the heart and passion for sports and a love for the game of football and gives his all in everything he does. Not only does Josh shine in sports, he is also a good student maintaining a 3.0 GPA, even after moving states.

At what age did you begin playing football and what initially interested you most about the sport?

I began playing when I was 8, at the time I was playing/interested in basketball and baseball, but my dad was like “hey try it.” Ever since then it’s been in my head, it’s been my sport. I remember the first time I made my first touchdown, it just felt right.

Do or did you play any other sports?

Right now, I just play football and run track. I do play basketball, but I took a year off to gain weight. Definitely going to play basketball next year though.

What did football teach you about yourself or life once you began playing?

At first, I started for fun and I didn’t see any potential until middle school, then it got serious. I felt as if I was losing my work ethic and almost quit football going into my 9^th grade year. I’m glad I didn’t quit because my freshman year one of the games I played running-back and ran for 216 yards with 3 touchdowns.

How does playing football in Texas differentiate from playing in Louisiana?

Down here it’s just a sport, in Texas football is top notch. The importance of football here isn’t as great as it is in Texas. But I like that here I’m allowed to play multiple sports unlike in Texas.

Who is your biggest role model? Why?

Brady Pennington, my head coach from my high school in Texas. He is a great guy who loved to see everyone do good. At first, I was just playing football for fun, but he helped me see the other side of the game. Unfortunately, he retired this past year, so the guys now won’t be able to have that connection I had with him.

Outside of sports do you have any hobbies you do in your free time. If so, what do you enjoy most about them?

I rarely have time to sit back and relax, but I do enjoy some college football. My favorite team is the Texas Longhorns, and favorite player is Vince Young. I grew up watching the 2005 Rose Bowl.

Do you have a favorite professional athlete? Who and Why?

I don’t really watch that much professional football, but if I had to name someone it would be Colt McCoy.

What are some of your personal goals for this next season or just in general?

I would like to break the sack record for Louisiana. Last season I was third overall with 11.5.

What steps have you taken to further obtain your goals?

I am constantly working out, running drills, and practicing every day before and after school. I cannot live without football.

What makes you stand-out among any other player?

Character, I have character. You can’t judge character. I believe in playing as a team and not just as one person.

How do you deal with the pressure of potentially playing at a collegiate level?

There’s no pressure. If it’s my calling to play, then I’ll play. Whatever happens, happens if it doesn’t, then it wasn’t meant to be. I’ve come to basis with God.

What is something you had to overcome? How did it shape you into the person you are today?

My freshman year I was ranked 29^th out of the whole state of Texas. One of my coaches told me “you’ll never be good enough to play college football.” I was hurt, but I self-assessed. I wrote a note to myself that said “you are not good enough.” Every morning I woke up, saw that, and worked 10 times harder.

Finally, what do you believe to be the most rewarding part about playing this sport and being a part of a team?