Jeremiah Rogers is still early in his high school career, but the Crescent athlete is already building a reputation rooted in discipline, adaptability and trust.
Entering his sophomore year, Rogers has embraced both the expectations of varsity athletics and the personal growth that comes with it. Much of that mindset traces back to two key influences in his life: his father and coach.
“My dad’s hard work ethic has played a big role in my life,” Rogers said. “It’s why I should work so hard in everything I do and keep working at something till perfection.”
He carries that same mindset onto the field, where Crescent coach Hixon has also shaped his development.
“Coach Hixon inspires me because he never gave up on me,” Rogers said. “He has trusted me ever since I was a freshman to do the right thing on and off the field.”
That trust became especially important during one of the biggest transitions of Rogers’ young career. After playing quarterback his entire life, he shifted to wide receiver upon entering high school — a move that required both physical and mental adjustment.
“Going from catching snaps and throwing the ball to running routes and catching passes was a big change,” Rogers said. “But I still love it.”
The adjustment has paid off. One of his favorite memories came when he scored his first high school touchdown, a milestone that validated the work he had put into learning a new position.
Rogers credits his teammates for helping him through that transition and for creating an environment built on accountability and support.
“What I enjoy most about being on the team is I know I have people I can always count on,” he said. “We all hold each other accountable for our work ethic and our actions.”
Among those teammates, one has had a particularly lasting impact. Former teammate Smith Gordon, a senior during Rogers’ freshman season, took on a mentorship role that extended beyond football.
“He took me under his wing and helped me with my routes,” Rogers said. “He mentored me as a person in life too. I feel like he passed the torch to me to be next up.”
That sense of responsibility continues to drive Rogers, both on and off the field. When he is not training or competing, he spends his time with family and friends or working to improve his game. His commitment to growth also extends into his community, where he has volunteered with children’s church.
In the classroom, Rogers gravitates toward history, a subject he enjoys for its storytelling and perspective. He still remembers one of his favorite teachers, Ms. Branson from fifth grade, as someone who made a lasting impression on his academic experience.
Football, however, remains his central focus. Whether it is preparing for games — often listening to NBA YoungBoy to get mentally locked in — or reflecting on lessons learned through competition, Rogers approaches the sport with purpose.
“Athletics taught me that if you want to accomplish something, you have to put in 100% of your effort and time,” he said.
