For Welch High School senior Joseph Clinton, football is about more than the position he plays. As the Wildcats’ quarterback, Clinton values the relationships that unite the team, and the shared work required to improve each week.
“I love how close together we are as friends and how we come together,” Clinton said.
Clinton brings leadership and discipline to the quarterback position, setting an example for teammates through his commitment on the field and in practice. He believes the Wildcats’ success begins with the preparation they put in long before kickoff.
“The strength of my game is being a leader and staying disciplined,” Clinton said. “Having a successful season requires a lot of hard work in and out of practice.”
After last season, Clinton entered his senior campaign eager to see the progress the Wildcats could make. The quarterback sees improvement as a team effort, built through daily consistency, accountability and the willingness to work for one another.
“Coming into this season I’m most excited about seeing how much improvement we make from last season,” Clinton said.
Away from the field, Clinton enjoys spending time with his teammates after games. Those bonds, he said, are an important part of his football experience and contribute to the chemistry the Wildcats carry onto the field.
“I play quarterback for the Wildcats and after the games I enjoy hanging with the dudes,” Clinton said.
Clinton also stays active beyond football. He plays basketball and is involved in National Honor Society and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. His faith serves as a guiding influence in how he approaches athletics, academics and daily life.
“Jesus Christ inspires me, and I try to live like Him every day,” Clinton said.
As a leader, Clinton also recognizes the effort of others around him. He pointed to teammate Khol Lynch as a player whose approach continues to stand out during the season.
“A teammate who continues to impress me is Khol Lynch,” Clinton said. “His hustle and dedication at every practice is great to see.”
Welch head coach Ryan Gleaves said Clinton’s leadership reaches beyond football. Whether he is in class, on the court, on the field or serving at his church, Clinton represents the qualities the Wildcats want in their program.
“Joseph is the same outstanding kid on field as he is off the field,” Gleaves said. “He is a hard-worker and a leader for our team.”
After graduation, Clinton plans to attend college. Until then, he intends to continue leading the Wildcats through discipline, hard work and a commitment to his teammates.
