Mississippi Link Newswire
2020 ATH Joseph Perkins
JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI
It was homecoming and eighth-grader Joseph Perkins had just been crowned Bailey APAC Middle School homecoming king during halftime and found himself back on the gridiron just moments later playing wide receiver for the Bailey Knights. It was the last game of the season. The opponents’ defense had been tough all night, but Perkins felt something about this particular play. He was getting himself ready, going over the plays in his mind. The snap was made and Perkins hustled quickly to the end zone – to the “sweet spot.” Bailey quarterback, Thaddeus Bishop, made eye contact with Perkins, heading deep in the corner of the end zone more than 30 yards away. He passed the ball and Joseph dove to catch it. He rolled twice and finally came up with the ball. It was a touchdown, and the crowd went wild! Making big plays and supporting his team are nothing new to 13-year old Perkins.
This year he led the Bailey Knights in touchdown receptions, yards after the catch, interceptions and he was one of the leading tacklers on defense. He’s been playing football and developing his skills since the age of 5. He finished his youth football career with the Jackson Giants in the Mississippi Youth Sports Association League and people are now taking notice of the young athlete’s skills after his two-year career as a Bailey Knight.
Perkins displays an impressive range and versatility, most recently playing wide receiver, quarterback, defensive back and safety positions. In fact Perkins’ talents on the gridiron have caught the attention of talent scouts, agencies and various All American Youth football organizations across the nation. He has recently been selected to play in two eighth-grade All American Football Games in Atlanta, Ga., and Virginia. He has also been encouraged to attend football camps such as the Adidas Showcase, the NextGen All American, the U.S.A. Regional Development Camp and Football University camps in various locations across the nation to sharpen his skills before heading to high school. Perkins takes his studies just as seriously.
He maintains a 3.6 GPA at Bailey and hopes to one day become an athletic physical therapist. He also competes in track and plays basketball. “We’re very proud of Joseph,” said Sean Perkins, his dad. “His mom, Chetonya, and I are not only impressed by his talents on the field and in the classroom, but most especially in the responsible, considerate young man he’s become as well.” The All American Youth Football Games will provide a unique spotlight for Perkins when he competes, first later this month and then again in the spring. He will be sharpening his skills, as well as showcasing them along side some of the best eighth-grade football players from across the country. When asked about these upcoming opportunities Perkins smiles and says, “I am excited about being selected to play in these All American games because I can showcase my skills in front of college scouts from all over the country, and I can play with/against some of the best players in my peer group.” Joseph has two younger brothers, Matthew and Daniel. The Perkins family attends Greater Mt. Calvary M.B. Church, and Perkins serves as a junior usher. He is raising money to pay for the cost of camp registration and travel expenses associated with each camp and All American games.
Those interested in making a donation should visit Perkins’ GoFundMe page at https:// www.gofundme.com/jgew7ed8 Donations can also be mailed to 1718 Lake Trace Dr., Jackson, MS 39211.
