Spring Training...

Football is life! Been working out hard. Pushing myself each day to become stronger. I've come a long way and I won't stop until I get to the top. The fighter in me is determined to be the best. I must get my tackles and sacks up. The pressure is on but I won't fail because I was born a fighter. Any tips on how to prepare myself?

Football highlights #42

http://www.hudl.com/athlete/2375385/chris-blanton

Finally got my highlights page completed!

John Wooden "The Great"

For those who don't know John Wooden well shame on you. Not only was he one of the best coaches of all time but he also was very wise. If there is anything my family tries to teach me about life and football it's about having character. John Wooden talks a lot about character. Here are some of my favorites:

“Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are.”

“Ability may get you to the top, but it takes character to keep you there.”

“The true test of a man’s character is what he does when no one is watching.”

So why is character so important to have? Why does my mom and auntie drill it in my head so much? My auntie says it creates humility within humanity. She says it's important because in order to know where you are going you have to know where you come from. As a sophomore I haven't figured out just yet. I know I want to get into a prestigious school, make my momma proud, and be somebody in this world.

More John Wooden Favorites:

“Never try to be better than someone else. Learn from others, and try to be the best you can be. Success is the by-product of that preparation.”

“Talent is God given. Be humble. Fame is man-given. Be grateful. Conceit is self-given. Be careful.”

These quotes remind me of everything my mom tells me everyday. No matter how much I am compared to others in football or in school I know I have to be the best I can be and stay true to myself. Because when no one is looking that's when I'll take you by surprise and show you I am capable of raising the bar. I cannot fail... I will not fail! John Wooden's words live within me therefore I am great just like him.

For a mother's love...

Against all odds, Blanton though born prematurely proved to the world that a fighter was born. His mother at age 15 struggled and sacrificed to give her son a better life. He was destined to do something great in this lifetime. Blanton nicknamed "the bull" for his dedication and passion to the game demonstrates that against all odds for a mothers love he will succeed. His mother Regina is his biggest fan. It is this bond and love that makes him a bull ready to stand his ground and do what it takes all for a mothers love, all for the hopes of making something of himself. After each game he goes up to his mother, gives her kisses, hugs, and thanks her for her unconditional love and support. Blanton is a triple threat because he has dedication, determination, and the desire to be the best. There was a woman Chris never had the opportunity to meet. She was an amazing person who always use to say, "Are you living or existing?" She believed life is too short, every moment in life impacts who we become and rarely do we get second chances. Her name was Flor Valdez she was my mother and sadly she lost the battle to Ovarian Cancer before she had an opportunity to see Chris play. And for a mothers love at every game he pays his respects, writes her name on his wrist and says a prayer. To honor her Chris volunteers and advocates for cancer awareness. For a mothers love he also salutes after certain tackles to honor those who have served in the military including me (his auntie) for the sacrifices we have made. Blanton comes from a very diverse support system and it is because of this that makes him a rounded athlete. He is a force to be reckoned with!