2024 Interview with "THE FORCE" known as Kaden Clay from Fredrick Douglass High (KY)

**newarkcatholicfan** · April 5, 2024

Kaden Clay

Fredrick Douglass High

ILB. RB

2025

6’0 214

How long have you played football, along with the reasons you continue to play?

I have played since the age of 6. And my number one reason to continue playing is that I truly love the game, and I told my cousin before he passed that I was going to make it, and I couldn't let him down. #LL6

Inside linbacker or runningback. Which of those two positions do you feel you are better at? Explain

I definitely feel like I can still play RB right now, but I would say I am better at the inside backer position. Even though I don’t like it as much, I have to do what's best for me. I felt like I was the best RB in the state of Kentucky, honestly, but I think the difference is the impact that I can have on the team on the defensive side of the ball. It feels natural.

What were your goals heading into the 2023 season, and did you achieve those goals?

Coming off an injury the year before, I had high expectations for myself. I wanted to lead the team in tackles and picks and just make a name for myself. and I did these things I felt like doing, but I will continue to try and get my name out there.

Who was the best team you faced during the 2023 season, and why do you believe they were so good?

Definitely hoban; they just wanted it more to me than a lot of other people.

Focusing on only the road games you have played, which stadium was the best to have played in?

Trinity playoff game, the crowd was great, the intensity of the game was up the whole time, and it was just a fun atmosphere to be in.

Who was the best player you guys faced during the 2023 season?

I would say probably the Smith twins from Corbin; they are dawgs.

Do you feel as though you and your teammates are role models for the kids who come and root for you?

I think we are just knowing how big Douglas football is in the community. We try to do a lot of giving back and just doing good things for the community.

What has been your biggest accomplishment as a football player?

For me, getting that first offer and getting that stress on my back of going to college for free was so important to me, seeing the path my brothers went down for college.

What has been your biggest embarrassment as an athlete?

Probably any moment that I felt as if I didn't do enough to help the team

What is the best advice you have been given when it comes to playing sports, and who gave you that advice?

Being coachable and just being willing to go the extra step further that these other people are doing the extra stuff outside of practice sets me aside.

What makes playing football for Fredrick Douglass so special?

It's a standard. We work hard, and that's all we know. We won't cheat our way around it because to be great, it takes work, and I feel like we are one big culture of different people.

I know that your recruitment has taken off. Would you share with the readers some of the schools showing interest in you?

Akron, Miami, OH, Ball St., Marshall, Louisville, UAB
Eastern Michigan, West Virginia

Who are your role models?

My brothers have been down the path that I've been on, made mistakes, and not had anyone to fall back on for help, so I'm thankful for them, and my mother is always teaching me hard work.

Outside of sports, what do you do for fun?

I love to play pickup basketball with the guys, play video games, and just be around my brothers, my "family.”

What scares you?

letting the people down that look up to me or look at me as a leader.

Pics include with link

https://hearltlandfan15.blogspot.com/2024/04/2024-interview-with-force-known-as.html