Fork Union Players Come up Big for NSU

Three former Fork Union Military players played key roles in Norfolk State’s season-opening 24-0 victory over Virginia State on Sept. 1. Freshman outside linebacker Deon King came off the bench to record five tackles, three for lost yardage, and a pair of sacks. Defensive teammate Shawn Fauntleroy Jr. also played key snaps along the Spartan defensive line, part of an effort which recorded the school’s first shutout since 2001.

In addition, offensive lineman Amardeep Singh helped the Spartans amass 340 yards of total offense, including 223 on the ground. NSU did not allow a sack in the opener.

Those three, along with fellow rookie linebacker Lamar Neal, should continue to make a big impact for the Spartans as they look to repeat as Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference champions.

Matt Michalec

Assistant Athletics Director for Communications

Norfolk State University

The time we spend in preparation for spring practice is critical to our development as a team. It is both mental and physical. We challenge our players to be the best they can be in all areas of their lives. They are pulled in many directions and at times not the best at making decisions. We provide them with guidance to do the right thing.

This includes how they treat others. Basically it comes back to THE GOLDEN RULE. Treat others in the manner in which you want to be treated. Easy to say, and not always easy to do. We talk about how to introduce yourself, how to shake hands, why holding the door for men and women is the right thing. The ability to look someone in the eye is critical to getting to know them, it also give them an opening to get to know you.

We talk to them about how to treat women and how to set an example on our campus. These things transcend campus and are traits that will enable them to be leaders. This world is in dire need of leadership. College football is a great teacher in that adversity is a natural part of this game.

The more they understand that adversity is a natural part of life the better they will be able to handle it when it comes. Believe me it does come. It seems some of us get more than our share. I have always felt that we are given what we can handle. That through the hard times we grow strong. The stronger we get the better we are at handling what comes our way.

FOOTBALL IS HARD, LIFE IS A LOT HARDER

Enough philosophy. It is great to be a football coach