Athletes put in a lot of hard work so that they can be at their best when they compete. While the work can be tough, it is worth it when you see it pay off on the field. Leland Kimbrough agrees and says that a milestone moment is at the top of his list.
“I think the highlight moment of my career so far would have to be getting my first sack as a freshman,” he recalled. “To be successful, you have to be dedicated and motivated. My motivation comes from wanting to be better than everyone else.”
Kimbrough is a junior at Cleveland High School, where he is a member of the football, powerlifting, and track teams. Along with being a focused and hard worker, Leland also carries a never-give-up attitude. That determination has been on full display this season, as he tore his ACL on the very first day of football practice. Despite the injury, he has continued to compete and plans to finish the season without letting it slow him down or affect his level of play.
Throughout his life, there have been people who have made an impact on Leland and helped shape him into the person that he is today.
“One of my biggest influences would be my dad,” he stated. “He pushes me to be better, and I want to be more like him. Another would be Coach Wenger because he wants me to become the best I can be at whatever I do.”
His teammates have also played a big role in who he has become, both as a person and an athlete.
“The teammate I enjoy working with the most is Jesse Beard because he is the best lineman, so it pushes me to be better,” he stated.
Being able to wear the Tigers uniform when he competes is something special to Leland, as he is proud of his community.
“To represent my school and community means carrying the pride of Cleveland, both as a school and as a town, and honoring the people who make it special.”
