Rising freshmen on the Ball State football team Kameron Anthony and Jalen Alexander made it their goal to go to college together and compete at the next level.
They met in their sophomore year at Hamilton Southeastern and after dedicating years of their high school football careers to the college recruitment process, both Alexander and Anthony received offers from more than 10 college teams, including Ball State, a Division 1 university near their home in Fishers, Indiana.
“I knew I wanted to play for Ball State’s football team because of their team culture,” Alexander said. “With a group of supportive teammates by my side, I feel at home at Ball State.”
Alexander committed early to Ball State in June 2023 and Anthony accepted the offer shortly after. His decision was partially influenced by the fact that one of his best friends would be on the football team with him.
When they started summer training together in early June 2024, Alexander and Anthony realized that college workouts were going to be significantly more challenging than what they were accustomed to at HSE.
“The workouts are a lot more intense–mentally and physically,” Alexander said. “We just finished high school, but we are training with grown men.”
Though the transition from high school to college football has been tough, Alexander and Anthony have stuck together through it all.
“We hold each other accountable during practice,” Anthony said. “We use competition to motivate each other to reach our goals.”
Alexander and Anthony have found time in between workouts and summer courses to strengthen their bond off the football field.
“We are roommates, and we are scheduled to take a class together in the fall,” Anthony said. “Being together has made it easier to adjust to college life.”
With their freshman year looming and very little knowledge on what to expect throughout the season, Alexander and Anthony must rely on each other to propel their skills to the next level. The pair are excited for the year ahead, ready to take on whatever challenges they face—together.
