Running toward success

Rosa Lee Harkrader/ The Captain's Log

Sophomore running back, Markeese Stovall, has shown maturation and dedication not only on the field but off the field as well, and has been a dynamic bright spot in the Captains 2-2 start this season.

Markeese began playing football in middle school and continued to participate in a number of other sports throughout high school including baseball, basketball, wrestling, and track. After graduating from James River High School, Markeese set his sights on the world of colligate football.

“Being a part of sports teams throughout school has taught me responsibility and accountability,” says Stovall.

“I came out to CNU with a family member who had recommended it. I loved the atmosphere; it was a football game and we were winning, everyone was really into it and I said, ‘I want to be out there on that field someday,’” Stovall explained. Now not only is he on the field, but he is dominating it.

This will be Markeese’s second season playing on the Captain’s football team, and he started it out with an amazing 62-yard touchdown. As Markeese describes this moment, his eyes light up and you can see the pride and excitement on his face.

It was the second half of the first game of the season, and the Captain’s first possession on offense. Stovall took the handoff and blasted through the middle for a touchdown to get the Captain’s on the scoreboard first.

“As a running back, once I get the ball it’s me versus the other guy. There is always that one last guy and I get to get him in trouble the next time that they watch film,” said Stovall.

Stovall is working so well with the team this year in part because of his respect for Head Coach Matt Kelchner.

“I really respect Coach K., because he gave me another opportunity to play the game. I really appreciate what he has done for me,” stated Stovall.

Kelchner describes Stovall as being hardworking not only on the field but in the weight room and at practice as well. Kelchner also describes his drive and wiliness to “fight for every inch.”

In last Saturday’s game against Methodist, the conference opener, which CNU won 26-14, Stovall took a late hit from an opposing player and turned his frustration into momentum for the next play, as, “he ran a guy over into the end-zone for the touchdown,” said Kelchner. This determination, along with his skills in reading plays and blitz pick-up, make Stovall a force to be reckoned with on the field.

Although Stovall has struggled with his pass-blocking, he has continued to work on the skill both on and off the field and has shown improvement. Markeese worked throughout the summer to prepare for this season, and has come a long way. “I worked really hard to get where I am today,” explained Stovall, “I hit the weight room almost every day and ran sprints.”

He is respected for his quality of character both on and off the field. Zach Stevens, a junior fullback for the Captains who has been Markeese’s friend and football-roommate since their freshman year, said that Stovall “ has always been a great friend to me; Stovall was the first person to reach out to me when I was at my loneliest point. And, after many position changes, I can say that I am proud to be his lead blocker and I can’t wait to help him lead us to another great football season at CNU,” explains Stevens.

Stovall’s teammates also recognize his hard work and dedication to the game, and admire him for it.

Stevens said, “Markeese always works hard. He makes sure to push himself in every footwork or fit-up drill that we do throughout practice and that always makes me want to try harder so that I can get the block to help spring him onto a big run.”

He adds, “that with his above average rushing yardage already this season and his hard-nosed running style, Markeese is a major catalyst for the team.”

Markeese has set high goals for both himself and his team this season. “My expectations for this year are high. We have a great team; we are all one family and have great chemistry.”

He adds that “the seniors have worked hard up until this point and they are continuing to give their all for us.” His teammates have followed his lead, and are inspired by him to set their goals higher as well.

As far as plans for the future, Stovall says that he is focused on this season and how to improve his game for right now. “It takes an offense and a defense to win and I’m glad to be part of the game.”

Posted by Rosa Lee Harkrader on Oct 5 2011. Filed under Featured, Football, Sports. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Both comments and pings are currently closed.