Newcomer Dale Nelson doesn’t do anything small.
Photo by Rebecca Holt
Junior Dale Nelson is new to TJ this year and is already leaving his size 13 footprint on the Spartan football field. It’s hard not to look up to Nelson; he rises to the grand height of 6’6”. “Dale is a big kid. Being big in football means everything: he could occupy two gaps,” Head Football Coach Tim Owens said.
Nelson was born with not only the build but the mentality to be a football player. “A passion is when you love something deeply, and that’s how I feel about football,” said Nelson, who lives and breathes football, which he started playing at the age of eight and hasn’t stopped since. Not only is Nelson an athlete, but a Colorado sports fanatic as well. “I do my best in the sport. It would be a dream come true to play for the Broncos someday,” said Nelson, who plans on attending the University of Nebraska after High School to continue to take advantage of his talent and pursue his passion for football.
On the field, Nelson plays defensive tackle. “I love the position I play. I can’t get enough of the pure adrenaline rush I get after hitting our opponent’s quarterback. The most exciting games are when you don’t get any breaks; you have to be really alert and aware of what’s going on,” said Nelson.
“Dale’s future in football is looking very good. Recruiters always look for size and wing span, both of which he has. He fits the prototype; that alone will get him looks,” Owens said. These words should only sweeten the taste of success for Nelson.
So far, Nelson has made a positive impact on his fellow Spartan teammates. “Dale has been doing really well. He is definitely a great asset to our defensive line; he plays with heart and dedication. His attitude towards the game has lifted the team’s spirit and moral,” commented Junior Brandon Tara, one of TJ’s defensive end players.
Music is what pumps Nelson up before a game and prepares him to help boost the team’s energy as well. “I like all genres of music. Some favorites are Nelly and AC/DC. Nothing can pump me up more than blasting Heart of a Champion by Nelly,” Nelson said.
Nelson’s favorite quote is what generates a sense of motivation for him: “Winning isn’t everything, it’s the only thing,” by Vince Lombardi. “Winning is very important to me. When you’re winning you’re having a good time, too. The quote gives me a clear vision of what I am working towards; it makes me push myself that much harder,” Nelson commented. It is also Nelson’s Dad and Uncles’ successes that keeps him driven, “They are both very successful men and taught me how to do the right thing. They support me in everything I do and set the right examples for me,” Nelson said.
Nelson hopes to see everyone at the football games. “The team has been working really hard this year; the only other thing we need is the fans to support us and cheer us on,” he said.
Sat 10/24/09 @ Gateway High School 12:00PM
Fri 10/30/09 @ Denver East High School All City Stadium 7:00PM
