Rising Star, DB Javonta Thomas, North Iberville High School (Iberville, LA)

Javonta Thomas is a defensive back and quarterback from North Iberville. He is 5’3 and weighs 135 pounds. With an impressive 3.8 GPA, he is a rising junior high football prospect who excels in both academics and athletics. He’s not the tallest player on the team, but he doesn’t let it define who he is. During his recent football season, he was thrown into an unanticipated role when the starting quarterback was hurt. Javonta took the challenge and did not back down. His ability to step up to quarterback says volumes about his commitment to the team’s success and his ability to overcome challenges. 

How did you get started in football, and what inspired you to play the sport?

I started playing when I was 7 years old and my dad always pushed me to get better at the sport I love.

Can you share a memorable moment or game that stands out in your junior high football career so far?

The last game of the season. I threw 2 touchdowns and ran about 30 yards.

What positions do you enjoy playing the most, and why?

QB because I can help make the big plays and help other people do what they are best at.

How do you balance schoolwork and football during the season?

I focus more on school than on sports. If you don’t have the grades then you would not be able to play the sport.

What aspects of your game do you feel you have improved upon the most since you started playing?

My biggest improvement is being able to escape the pressure from the dline and being able to know where to put the ball is at. 

What are your individual goals for the upcoming football season?

My biggest goal is to make the playoffs as our first year being back as a varsity football team

Are there any professional football players you look up to, and if so, why? 

 Drew Brees because he knew how to lead the team. 

How do you stay motivated during practices and training sessions, especially when facing tough drills or exercises?

 I was taught to keep out all distractions because if I let something get in my head then my play will be affected and I will lose focus.

What advice would you give to other young players?

My advice would be to stay motivated and keep pushing.

Aside from football, what is an interesting fact about you? 

I play basketball and also help coach a youth team around my area.

Which college would you most like to play for? 

LSU!

What did it mean to be a part of the Gridiron Bowl football game? 

It meant a lot because i got to meet a lot of ppl and play against a lot of competition that I may play against later in life.

What are your biggest strengths on the field? 

Reading the defensive.

What is the biggest challenge you face on the field? 

Being the smallest one on the field and not being able to see above the o-line but it doesn’t stop me from playing the sport I love.

How has playing football impacted other areas of your life, such as academics and personal growth?

It has helped me focus on school and have kept me in shape to play other sports.