A seemingly ordinary day was about to change Joshua Blackston’s life. Known for his offensive lineman prowess, the senior from Dunbar High School was recently honored as the first student from Baltimore City Public Schools to be selected to the Under Armour All-America High School Football team. WMAR2 News reports that the news was made after practice, leaving the Rutgers commit pleasantly perplexed as he saw his parents on the field without fully understanding the implications at first.
Under Armour was present to recognize Joshua Blackston’s brilliance and hard work while parents and players were taking notice of the practice field’s coolness. “We are here to celebrate you, Joshua. Not only are we at UA excited, but your teammates, your family, and your coaches,” the Under Armour official said, highlighting the community’s pride in Joshua. You are the first athlete from Baltimore City Public Schools to be chosen for the UA Next All-America squad, which makes us very happy.” Joshua’s selection for the esteemed All-America game, scheduled for January 2, 2025, in Florida, represents more than just his own recognition. Putting underdogs on the map is the goal, or at least that’s what Blackston stated with genuine sincerity, according to WMAR2 News.
Beyond the field, Blackston’s selection has ramifications. With a stellar 92.6% graduation record among its 4-year players, Under Armour’s Project Rampart, in collaboration with Baltimore City Schools, seeks to elevate student-athletes throughout 23 schools, reaching over 33,000 children. This endeavor is in line with Blackston’s values, as he emphasizes the significance of highlighting the sometimes disregarded and undervalued talent in his city.
Joshua’s mindset as he prepares to demonstrate his skills at the All-American Game in Orlando on January 3, 2025, is indicative of an athlete committed to both individual and team growth. “After all the bad things that have been spoken about Baltimore and my city, it brings some optimism to my school and my hometown. According to WBALTV, he clarified, “I just want to spread the great things that we do here, the great athletes that are here.”
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