Standing at 5’7″ and 135 pounds, Malcolm Alexander is a running back and defensive back for Ferriday Junior High out in Ferriday, Louisiana and will be going to Ferriday High School. In our Gridiron Football Junior High All-American Bowl Game this past December, Alexander played for Team Central with his brother Mi’Kael, and recorded half a tackle on defense. Alexander may have just finished his first season of football, but he is already a confident player and a great leader. This past week, I had the good fortune of speaking with Malcolm.
Why do you play the game of football?
“I like it. It’s thoroughly entertaining to me. I’ve been watching my brother play and it made me want to play it too.”
Where do you see football going in your life?
“I see myself going to the NFL, just like my brother.”
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned through playing football?
“I learned that there are going to be players bigger, faster, and stronger than me, but I [always] have to try my hardest.”
What does football mean to you?
“It’s a part of me. I have a love for the game, even though it’s my first year playing. I’m still learning.”
What challenges have you overcome?
“I had to keep getting better out there. My footwork got better, I learned how to tackle better… [I just had to keep getting better.]”
How do you balance sports with your other responsibilities in life?
“I work out, I do 200 pushups every night, and I work on my skills with my brothers.”
Do you have a favorite football memory?
“My first down playing, I got my first tackle.”
How do you stay trained and in football-shape during the off-season?
“I’m getting bigger and always working on my skills. I also drink a lot of shakes.”
How are you looking to improve?
“I’m still working on learning the game, how to make good tackles, and standing strong.”
On the other hand, what do you think is your biggest strength?
“I’m aggressive. I’m only just working on my fundamentals.”
What are some goals you’ve set for yourself?
“To [always keep on] get better, and I always plan on getting more tackles than before. Interceptions, too.”
Do you try to model your game after any players, pro or collegiate?
“Ray Lewis. He reads the field, he’s aggressive when he plays, and he’s a huge leader.”
Do you consider football to be more physically challenging, mentally challenging, or both?
“Mentally challenging. I’ve only been playing one year and I’m still learning the game [on that side].”
What is an interesting fact about you that the readers should know?
“I’m shy, but I’m coming out of my shell still. I feel more and more comfortable out there. We’re only getting started.”
67
0
17
20
