Though playing football was never a thought when he was younger to senior Indy Hurst, his love for the game and his development as an athlete has grown. Starting in seventh grade, he never expected football to be such a big part of his life but, as the years went on and high school arrived his love for the sport skyrocketed. 

“I didn’t really like sports,” Hurst said.  “But my dad told me that he wanted me to just do it once. He just wanted me to do one year, and that’s all he was asking me.” 

Though it just seemed like it was a small thing his dad was making him do, football started a whole new way of life for Hurst. His love for the sport inspired him to not only improve his play but to get stronger in general. He has picked up new habits like working out, doing well in the classroom, and pushing himself to be a better person.

“My dad always pushed me to work harder and he wanted me to be the best man I could and always work hard no matter what,” Hurst said. “It has given me the ability to really push myself to honor his coaching.” 

Though others’ improvements seemed to come quickly, Hurst’s process was long. There were many unavoidable obstacles along the way, but Hurst defied all odds and never gave up. Although it was very rigorous at first, he kept working and adjusted to the challenge.

“At a young age, I was diagnosed with autism, so loud sounds, getting used to all that, bright lights, all that kind of stuff was very hard for me, but I learned to overcome it,” Hurst said.

This has led Hurst to want to be a great role model for people who struggle like him. No matter what you struggle with, you can do whatever you put your mind to.

“I can be a great role model for other people with special needs, or other people that think they can’t do it, because if I can do it, you can do it,” Hurst said.