Our Diamond In The Rough section is designed to highlight skilled athletes that are flying under the radar that have the potential to play at the next level. Today we will be highlighting Desmond Windon, Baker High’s running back, class of 2020.
Desmond is a 5’8 153 lb. three-star running back with great vision and outstanding balance. The first thing you notice when you see Desmond run is how electrifying he is and how every carry has the potential to be “taken to the house!” He has the keen ability to start and stop on a dime and superior vision that has been sharpened and fine tuned over the years of only playing the running back position. But as you look a little closer, past the obvious, you start to notice the mental and physical toughness displayed on every run, the refusal to be brought down by the first attempted tackler, and the big runs between the tackles for the first down to move the sticks. For the 2018-19 season Desmond averaged 131 carries and finished seven yards shy of 1,300 yards rushing with 26 Touchdowns. He was selected as a member of the All District Team for the second year in a row. We took the time to sit down with Desmond to answer a few questions.
At what age did you start playing football? I started playing football when I was 10 years old.
What is one thing you want to accomplish during your high school career? One thing that I want to accomplish is to bring my teammates a state championship an to be an All-American.
What is your biggest accomplishment in football this far? Making all-district 2 years in a row.
Has playing football ever help with personal problems off the field? Yes, it taught me how to remain focused and to see it through…whatever it is!
During your football career have you had to overcome any obstacles or difficulties? I broke my leg in 9th grade playing football. That was the first time I was ever seriously injured and I hated the whole process but I knew it was a process I had to go through to be able to heal and come back 100 percent. Rehab was hard but worth it.
What do you love the most about football? The energy and love I get from my brothers on the field and the rush I get when I score touchdowns!
Have there been times in the past where you felt like quitting? What motivated you to keep going? I never thought about quitting football, ever!
Do you consider football to be harder mentally or physically? Definitely mentally. When things get tough physically, mentally you have to make yourself push through. That’s the difference between a winner and loser. The game is definitely more mental.
How do you handle wins and losses? I hate losing more than I love to win if that makes sense but you have to lose in order to win. It’s all about learning and getting better.
Who motivated you to start playing the game of football? My older brothers motivated me to play because I knew I could be better than them one day.
In what ways do you show your leadership on and off the field? Your mentality shouldn’t change whether you’re on the field or in the classroom. I try to set an example by doing what’s expected and needed to get to the next level. I try to show the younger guys the discipline it takes to be great.
Describe yourself in one word? Humble
How long did it take for you to realize you where above average at football? The first time I touched the ball I scored on a 90 yard run. That’s when I knew I had special God given talent.
What can you work on to better yourself as a player and person? As a player working on my route running out the backfield. As a person to stay focused and keep all negativity away from me.
What NFL running back would you say your style resembles most? Alvin Kamara, a lot of people may think he is under sized but he is more physical than most backs.
What advice would you give a young athlete would wanted to play football? Follow your dreams and work hard to achieve what you want. Don’t look for anything but appreciate everything.
