#142 | The Making of the Toughest football ”CENTER” on the Planet! - 15- Year Old Kurtis Jones

Welcome to the 239 Uncensored Podcast, everything Southwest Florida and beyond! In this episode, we sit down with the impressive 15-year-old freshman football player, Kurtis Jones. Kurtis plays center at South Fort Myers High School, where he was on both the JV and Varsity teams as a freshman.

Kurtis shares insights into: The importance of the center position, describing it as the most physical and mentally demanding role on the field. He highlights the need for a high IQ, knowing plays and assignments, and having great footwork.

His journey in football, starting around age five, and how watching NFL games with his dad fueled his passion. He discusses finding his love for football around age 12 and realizing what position he was good at and needed to study. Overcoming challenges, including being born prematurely at 2 lbs 11 oz, and playing against older, larger high school teammates while being 5'7" and 270 lbs. He explains how being underestimated sets a "fire" in him and motivates him to train harder.

His biggest accomplishment this year: getting very close to God and how faith is essential to his life and achievements. Memorable football moments, including his final 14U youth season where he became a starter and had a play, the "Kurtis special," named after him, and a high school game against Fort Myers where he felt he succeeded against expectations. Kurtis discusses the following: His experience playing on both grass and turf fields, the pros and cons of each for his position.

The significance of the relationship between the center and the quarterback. The competitiveness in the trenches and how trash talk can sometimes escalate but also motivate. The importance of teamwork over being a "one-man army," emphasizing that teams need to be a single unit. He also touches on supporting teammates when they make mistakes. The value of leadership even as a freshman, and how watching film is crucial for game preparation.

Players who have positively impacted him, including his friend, who he's played with since age six, who took him under his wing as a freshman. He also shouts out to Derek Baker as an upcoming player to watch from here is Southwest Florida.

His future aspirations, including his dream college, the University of Florida (UF), and his hope for an opportunity to play in the NFL. Looking up to and studying NFL great Jason Kelce for his footwork and technique. Managing his busy schedule, balancing school, football, religion, and personal life, and waking up at 4:30 am for his routine.

The tremendous support from his father, who started "OT Media" to help Kurtis and other kids get exposure, and how his dad helps less fortunate players. His deep commitment to playing football, stating he would only stop if he were "dead," and acknowledging how medical advancements help players recover from injuries.

Kurtis shares a clutch moment from a recent season where he helped lead his team to a game-winning touchdown and two-point conversion in the fourth quarter. Kurtis demonstrates maturity beyond his years and an old soul with strong values, guided by his faith and supportive family.

Watch the full interview for an insightful conversation with this talented and inspiring young athlete!

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