Athlete Spotlight

School senior A.J. Hunt has been a staple on the football field since his middle school days. His love for the game started early, he was inspired by watching NFL games as a child.

“I’ve always played football since I was a little kid,” A.J. said. “I actually started out in middle school. Watching the NFL, like a lot of other kids, inspired me to play. And that’s what I’ve been doing ever since.”

Now, as an outside linebacker for the Warriors, A.J. thrives on the defensive side of the game.

“I play outside linebacker, and my favorite part is probably tackling people, like in the backfield and stopping the run,” he said. “I like dropping back in coverage, too, and stopping the pass, but I really love tackling people.”

Balancing academics and sports can be a challenge, especially during the intense football season.

“Sometimes it can be rough, but you just gotta find your way through,” A.J. said. “Homework and stuff gets overwhelming, but, at the end of the day, it’s like, I do what I love, so I’ll make it work.”

Despite the challenges, A.J.’s passion for the game keeps him going, and he relies on the support of his team to push through the tough times.

“We always make sure we’re prepared,” he said. “Whether that’s the coaches helping us or we’re helping each other, we’re a team. It’s not a one-man show; we all try to help each other.”

A.J. believes that what makes a great football player goes beyond just physical talent.

“Being a leader is key,” he said. “It’s about being someone a teammate can talk to, even if you’re not the best player. It’s being there for someone when they don’t know what they’re doing or they wanna learn how to play a certain position.”

A.J. embodies this leadership, not just on the field but in the hallways of White County High School.

His leadership hasn’t gone unnoticed by his teachers either. Lindsay Austin, one of A.J.’s favorite teachers, described him as “one of the most energetic student-athletes to ever walk the halls of WCHS. He is an incredible student, both hardworking and fun in class. His intensity and passion on the football field are, and will always be, legendary. He is an amazing young man, and I love watching him play. I will miss him terribly when he leaves WCHS.”

A.J. finds motivation in the dedication of professional athletes, admiring their ability to balance their busy schedules while continuing to work hard on the field.

“I look up to a lot of players, not just in my position,” he said. “The work they put in, especially college athletes, really inspires me. College is hard, and they still find time to practice for three or four hours a day.”

As for his goals, A.J. has his sights set on one thing: winning.

“I want to win state. I want that ring on my finger more than anything,” he said. I wanna win the region, too. Those are my goals.”

While AJ is focused on the present, he’s not too concerned with what comes after high school.

“I don’t really have any plans after high school yet,” he said. “I’m just focused on right now.”

Motivation during tough practices and games, such as the rivalry matchup against Cookeville, can be difficult to maintain. However, A.J. surrounds himself with positivity.

“I make sure I’m always in the game and try not to get distracted,” he said. “I surround myself with people who are always hype.”

A.J. also credits his coaches for their guidance, particularly Coach Curtis Beatty.

“I look up to Coach Beatty a lot,” he said. “He lives really far out, in Livingston, but he comes down here every single day to help us get better. He also helps us become better people. I know he has a good relationship with the Lord, and I’m jealous of that. I want to be like him.”

Balancing academics and athletics can be difficult, but A.J. has had strong support from his teachers, especially Mrs. Austin.

“I’ve always talked to her [Mrs. Austin] in between classes,” he said.  “She’s a really sweet lady, and I always love talking to her.”

A.J.’s impact on the football team and the student body at White County High School will be felt long after he graduates. Whether it’s making big plays on the field or offering encouragement to a teammate, A.J. is a leader who has left a lasting mark. As the season continues, he remains focused on one goal - bringing a state championship home to White County.