Meet Brad

When high school was on the horizon, Brad took the exploration very seriously. He visited three schools, including Loyola, and said, “Blakefield had an equal balance of faith and academics, and you felt valued as a person.” After that it was an easy decision for him and his twin brother, Derek, to become Dons. And when he arrived as a student Brad didn’t just connect with his classmates, he also formed close relationships with his teachers and coaches.

He recalls how supportive Ms. Dearborn was as his first math teacher and how she “brought me out of my shell.”  Brad is also grateful to his baseball coach, Mr. Kalista and football coaches, Mr. Zeyhoue and Mr. Henry for being “good role models.” Their gratitude also extends to our maintenance staff, who the brothers see daily and enjoy a friendly hello. The power of connection is strong and that has been felt by Brad and those who he encounters.

 

Brad is passionate about his time playing Varsity football and Varsity baseball at Loyola. He has excelled at both and when asked about his favorite thing about being a Don, he said, “playing in the Turkey Bowl.” It is a time-honored tradition that speaks to every Loyola football player’s heart. Brad is also this year’s recipient of the C. Markland Kelly Athletic Service Award. This is earned by a student for leadership, promotion of school athletics, teamwork, sportsmanship, and scholarship.

 

When he is not on the field you can find him participating in the Bible Study Club and the Outdoorsman Club. Hunting is an interest that has been passed down from his grandfather and became a hobby that he is able to pursue through the club at Loyola. He was also role model himself, serving as a camp counselor at River Valley Ranch remembering with a smile his nine-year-old campers.

 

In the fall Brad will attend Monmonth College where he plans to study business and criminal justice and play football. He has thoughts of maybe becoming a Secret Service Agent after he graduates. The sky is the limit, and we can’t wait to see where Brad goes.

Fun Fact: Brad plays guitar!