Another chance to hit the field
Students transfer to Texas A&M-Kingsville for a variety of reasons, including a better opportunity or they reached the ineligible marker.
Here at TAMUK there are a lot of transfer students, including international students.
Alex Smith, who plays on the defensive line for the Javelinas, is a big guy. His position on the defensive line is nose guard and his job is to fit and clog holes in the middle to make the ball bounce outside. wSmith is originally from Anahuac, Texas, which is on the outskirts of Houston. Smith graduated high school in 2019 and then attended Kilgore Junior College to achieve his college dreams.
“The reason I chose to go to college was for an opportunity to play football and to get my education,” he said.
After two years of hard work and dedication Smith was recruited on a full scholarship to attend TAMUK.
“My favorite aspect about TAMUK is playing football, there’s just something about the lights and atmosphere on Saturday nights,” Smith said.
Some players are not from Texas or had never been to Texas.
CJ Odom, who plays running back, is a tank. He runs through defenders and makes it look very easy. Odom is originally from Los Angeles, Calif., graduating from high school in 2019.
“Ever since I was a young boy, I always liked the game of football, which helped me have a good mindset and dedication to get to where I am now,” Odom said.
After giving his high school four years of blood, sweat and tears, Odom was able to continue his journey at Angelo State University. Putting up big numbers during the season at Angelo State Odom received more acknowledgement and encountered coaches from other schools, but only one caught his eye. With the beautiful southern skies and the tower of palm trees, TAMUK has a coastal vibe Odom enjoyed.
“With me being from California and seeing the palm trees on campus it made me feel like I was back at home and right away I knew it was my future home,” he said.
James Bell, who is originally from Houston, had a big spotlight on his name during his football career and still does to this day. Bell balled out during his high school years from freshman to his senior year but it wasn’t enough to get him where he wanted to be.
“When I graduated from high school, I thought to myself what was I going to do next with my life? So, I decided to continue my academic and athletic career at Texas Lutheran University,” Bell said. “Giving it all I had and playing lights out, I was rewarded with All American football and thought it was my chance to try and move up in the college divisions, so I tried my shot in the transfer portal.”
Bell received good feedback from many schools and coaches, but Kingsville wasn’t far from home.
“One thing I like about TAMUK is the sport events, not only because we are good but because of the fan base we get,” he said.