“We can’t focus on what happened a year ago, we have the talent to be good and we need to execute on game nights.”
A senior athlete going into their final high school season may find it hard to wrap their head around everything. Doing well in their sport is a key factor, while succeeding in the classroom is equally important.
Palmyra High School senior Davonte Vivian prepared for the final year of his high school career by setting goals on and off the field.
One of the top offensive linemen in Burlington County and South Jersey, Vivian (6-feet 3-inches, 290 pounds) is looking to help his team go further this season than in years past.
“We can’t focus on what happened a year ago,” Vivian said. “We have the talent to be good and we need to execute on game nights.”
Vivian was a second-team all-conference selection in the WJFL Freedom Division a year ago, and is also a wrestler for the school. Prior to stepping foot in Palmyra High School, Vivian never played a down of organized football.
“I never touched a football until freshman year,” Vivian said. “I was a basketball player in middle school and also enjoy working out when I’m not at practice or in class.”
The Beverly resident has set many goals not only for his team, but also for himself.
“Overall, we want to win the Freedom Division, make it to the Group Championship, and go undefeated,” Vivian said. “For myself, I want to lead the division in sacks, and be the best two-way lineman in Burlington County.”
Vivian is a true leader for the Panthers on and off the field, and is a great role model for the younger kids, according to head coach Jack Geisel.
“He’s huge, it’s huge to have a guy in the line that you can count on,” Geisel said. “He’s a good role model for the team, and he’s been through everything we’ve been through. The younger kids can see the way it’s done and learn from Davonte.”
Inside the classroom, Vivian enjoys algebra the most and is hoping to study technical engineering after graduation. The 17-year-old is looking at three colleges right now, and is hoping to make a difference in others’ lives as he grows older.
“Bryant, Kutztown and Temple are three main schools I’ve been looking at,” Vivian said. “I hope to one day own my own business fixing electronics for others.”
Other than his everyday schedule of school and practice, Vivian enjoys doing construction work with his friend, and working out and fishing with his father.
Vivian knows the days are ticking down at Palmyra High School, and would like to give his all in 2017.
“I want to make the honor roll for all four marking periods and receive my diploma,” Vivian said. “I’d like to also make it to the state tournament in wrestling and be the best offensive lineman to step foot in PHS. I also want to set a good example for the younger linemen so they can follow in my tracks when I am done.”
For more information on Vivian and the PHS football team, check http://www.maxpreps.com/high-schools/palmyra-panthers-(palmyra,nj)/football/home.htm.
