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I have dreamed about my Senior year of highschool football for a long time; growing up in Texas it's been kind of hard not to. The last thing I would have thought would happen is that I would be playing in Iowa. The way I was headed I wouldn't have played at all, but Midwest Academy Football has made my dreams of my Senior year of football come true.
Twelve months ago I was selling drugs, skipping school, stealing and getting kicked off the football team. My parents decided something had to be done so they sent me to the Program. I am extremely grateful to them for sending me here. It has given me so much more than I could have ever asked for. I was transferred to Midwest Academy after being at Casa By The Sea for nine months. The last three months here have been the best time of my entire Program.
My friend, Brandon, and I were able to play for the local high school here in the city of Keokuk. From the very first day of practice we knew that we had a lot of work to do on the team. We were both warmly welcomed by the team and the community. A lot of the players were negative and did not practice very hard. In the Program I was taught to do my best in anything I do and to not let mistakes bring down my positive attitude, so that's exactly what I did. When Brandon and I went out there we really opened up some peoples eyes. We brought people a positive attitude and taught people to practice like they want to play in the games.
Being in a high school environment again brought up many challenges and temptations for me. I could have easily gotten into a lot of trouble, but the tools I learned helped me through. Now I think about choices in my life before I make them. I decide what I want in my life and what I don't want. I also think of the results that will come from my decisions. This keeps me from making mistakes that would be devastating to my future.
We finished up the season and went to the first round of State playoffs. This was huge for myself and the town of Keokuk, who had only gone to the playoffs two other times in its history. We had a great football banquet where I was given awards for All District, State play- offs, and the Black Lion award for my perseverance and commitment to the team.
The coach has been sending game film out to some colleges and they want me to go play at their schools. This has really opened huge possibilities for me.
I am so happy and thankful for this great experience. Midwest Academy has really helped me get my life back on track with having a successful life. They have helped me get my grades up and have taught me so much about dealing with my issues and problems that will come up throughout my life. Best of all, the Program has taught me to believe in myself, and not to quit.
Midwest Academy
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