DITR: Xavier Ford, Leesville Highschool (Leesville, Louisiana)

Xavier is apart of the 2025 running back class. He is a 5’10, 210 pound running back for Leesville. He is a 2 year starter, going on his 3rd year starting. Not only is he exceptional on the field, he also maintains a 3.5 gpa in the classroom. Last season he rushed 2,425, averaging 8.2 yards a carry with 32 touchdowns. Currently he has offers from Arkansas State, Central Arkansas, University of Louisiana at Louisiana, Air Force, And the University of Monroe.

Xavier answered a few questions to get more of an insight on his experiences with football and this is what he had to say.

Who is one player you look up to?

”I looked up to my brother( Frank Ford) he graduated in the class of 2023. Even though we played different positions I looked up to him because he always motivated me to do better on and off the field. On the field, he was always there for me no matter the circumstances or situation he always looked out for me. Making sure I was good mentally and physically and also making sure I was taking care of what I need to take care of and staying healthy. He pushed me to be better mentally and further learn and understand the game of football.”

What is something a coach has told you that has stuck with you?

”You can’t succeed without failure and you can’t fail without success. It’s what you do in these moments that make you the person you are, Are you going to lay down and quit? Or get up and keep fighting. This stuck with me because in society it’s so easy to quit and take the easy way out. However,how would I know what success is if I quit when things get hard. I have to go through trials and hardship to achieve succes.“

What made you fall in love with the sport”

”What made me love this sport,is the relationship I get to create with my teammates and coaches,and the ability to be able to push myself past my physical and mental limits. Also the lessons and life skills i get to learn from other people.”

What is your favorite memory from playing football”

“Be the best teammate/player I can be everyday, rush for over 2,500 yards, get 1,000 receiving yards, get 20+ D1 offers, and win state.”

If there was one thing you could tell your younger self, what would that be?

“Live in the moment, enjoy and take pride in everything you do. Dont let outside distractions get in your head and cloud your judgment. Go hard everyday and be better today than you was yesterday.”