1. Name, sport, and college:
My name is Elisha Scott Alfred. I play football at Ottawa University in Surprise AZ. I’m originally from Norwich, Connecticut but I moved to Bagdad in 2013 when I was 6 years old so to me Bagdad is my home town. I grew up with both my parents and two younger siblings. I attended elementary thru high school in Bagdad and I started playing football when I was in 1st grade with Coach Tom who always drilled me whenever I was on that field and it just made me want to be a better player. I continued playing throughout high school and with the help and guidance of Coach Mills I was able to receive a sports scholarship and now I’m playing in college.
2. What’s been the biggest adjustment from high school athletics to college athletics?
The size of the school was definitely difficult to adjust to and leaving my family and friends, I get homesick a lot, but I have made friends and we’ve been hanging out and having fun so I’m getting used to it.
3. What moment are you most proud of so far in your college career?
Right now, it’s passing all my tests. I take about 5 tests every week, and so far, I’ve gotten 100 on most of them. I was also able to beat out upper classmates for my spot on the team so that’s pretty exciting for a freshman.
4. How did growing up in a small-town shape you as an athlete and as a person?
Growing up in small town made me appreciate the small things especially my family. I have a strong bond with my parents and siblings. Everything we do we do it together.
5. What do you miss most about home, and what do you love most about college life?
I definitely miss my mom’s cooking and my family and pets. The thing I probably love most about attending college is playing football. It’s a lot of work but so fun.
6. What advice would you give younger athletes in our community who dream of playing college ball?
Hard work definitely pays off, not just in season, but off season as well. You can’t just practice with the team and that’s it. You have to work on your own time and do extra. You have to put that extra work in especially in the weight room. Listen to Coach Mills, he knows what he’s talking about.
7. One fun fact your hometown fans might not know about you.
I love to read and I’m a gamer. If I see a book store I have to go in. Any free time I get I’m either reading or playing online with my friends like Francisco and James.
