As the new academic year approaches, Ball State University welcomes an exciting group of freshman football players who are already making their mark both on and off the field. These athletes, coming from three different high schools and two different states, are not only focused on their individual performances but are also deeply focused in building strong relationships with their teammates and setting ambitious goals for the upcoming season.
“It hasn’t been hard at all,” freshman Jalen Alexander said. “Living on the same floor, going on Target runs, or going to dinner together, we have a special class because of the relationships we have.”
This unity is reflected in their shared team goals, highlighting the team’s readiness and ambition.
“Our expectations are high,” Alexander said. “I think that’s just our standards. We’re ready to come to battle come September.”
The incoming football class is stacked full of recruits from around the Midwest. Dantu Gardner, a defensive edge from Lawrence North in Indianapolis, also has big aspirations going into his first season of college football.
“Winning the Mid-American Conference, getting a bowl appearance, and having a winning record,” Gardner said.
However, Gardner believes that building strong relationships with his teammates is the first crucial step toward achieving these goals.
“Communicating with each other and spending time together outside of football practice and weightlifting,” Gardner said.
While not just looking at Indiana athletes, wide receiver and defensive end Layton Starks from Woodford County in Versailles, Kentucky, also believes this Ball State team has the chemistry to get the job done.
“It’s a great team to be around,” Starks said. “It’s a big bond, the team is very supportive, we work together.”
Starks feels the main key to success is one thing.
“A trait our whole team needs is to be energized,” Starks said. “That’s probably one of the main keys in football, you can win every game.”
Freshman tight end Kameron Anthony believes energy is the key to winning.
“Of the few players that will play this year, we’ll make sure they’re just dogs and they’re able to help us win games,” Anthony said.
While getting this freshman class ready for their first year of playing time, Anthony also looks into the future when playing time becomes more crucial for this upcoming class.
“These guys are your brothers,” Anthony said. “You’re going to play football with them for the next four to five years. You’re able to build relations that will last a lifetime.”
As these freshman players prepare for the season, they are not just focused on their personal achievements but are committed to building a strong, united team. Their dedication to building relations and setting high expectations is sure to offer a team to cheer for and a source of pride for the Ball State community.
