NOTE: Football is sport where the majority of fans may know the names and numbers of the players but seldom see their faces and get to know them personally. In an effort to introduce the members of the 2023 JHHS football team, Jackson Parish Journal correspondent, Clay Williams, presents a question and answer interview series with Tiger players. Today – Kalep Atkins!
Meet The Tigers
What’s your name, grade, number, and position?
Kalep Atkins, 12th, #5, Cornerback
What are your hobbies outside of football?
I run track for the school, and I also do a lot of working around the house in my spare time.
What is your favorite pregame song?
I don’t have a favorite song actually, but I’m always making sure to listen to rap music before a game.
What is your favorite subject in school?
Math, even though I don’t like it doing it, I am very good at it, especially algebra.
Who would you say is your biggest motivation in life?
My Mom, she always gives me pregame talks and helps me through anything I’m going through.
What is your best memory from playing football?
Going to the semifinals, because everybody was cheering us on and it gave us so much
motivation.
What college/NFL player/professional athlete do you take inspiration from?
Tank Dell, his route running and speed is awesome to watch, and even though I play corner he helps me to study from the other side of the ball.
What is something important a coach has taught you?
Always play my position, never play anybody else’s..
What is the biggest obstacle you’ve had to overcome?
Fear, because during the Bunkie game last year I dislocated my arm, and I was scared to mess it up again when I got back out there. I’ve learned to play fearless again this season, and that has really helped me.
What are your thoughts about the team’s play so far this season?
We’ve been getting better and better, but we need to focus in on the end of the year to achieve our goals.
What are your plans after graduation?
Go to college, major in computer science engineering, and try to play sports if I can. Louisiana Tech or Grambling would be my top choices..
Lastly, what are your goals for the rest of this season for yourself, and the team?
For the team, try to make it to the finals and get a ring. For myself, try to get a scholarship and make it out of Jonesboro one day.