More than just a player
Published 12:00 am Saturday, May 28, 2016
Andalusia junior running back Jamal Hourel really found his stride on the football field this year, but it’s the things off the field that really set him a part.
“I want to show them how to play as team,” Hourel said. “How to play with sportsmanship, but most of all, I want the kids to have fun. I want them to enjoy the game, because at the end of the day that’s what it’s all about.”
After finishing up with football season, Hourel immediately began assisting his dad coach his younger brother’s basketball team, and then in the spring Hourel took on the challenge of helping coach his sister’s softball team.
“I do it because I enjoy teaching and being around kids” Hourel said. “I hope to teach kids leadership and to teach them to play with sportsmanship.”
Hourel said that he wants to be a role model for the younger generation.
“It’s important to me because kids need somebody to look up to,” Hourel said. “I want to that guy for the kids. If they ever need to talk I’m here for them, or if they need a friend I’m there for them. That’s what I always tell them. I’m just their coach, I’m their friend as well. So I just try to inspire them to be the best they can be.”
Hourel said another thing he wants to do is encourage the kids to go after their goals.
“I want them to always follow their dreams,” Hourel said. “Even if it gets tough, never give up on that dream”