The Shadow
It’s the life of a lineman.
A lot of work, not much noterity.
Wednesday, Nick Humphreys was center stage in the Covington High School Gym.
Humphreys, a Cougar senior, committed to play football at Emory & Henry College.
“Football is a big part of what got me through high school,” Humphreys said. “I struggle a little bit in the classroom sometimes. But just being able to go out there (on the football field) and do what I love with some of my best friends means a lot.
“Football is important to me for several reasons,” he added. “It’s taught me how to deal with aggression with issues outside of school. It’s taught me accountability for my actions and it also has led me to develop a strong sense of integrity — to be able to get the job done when it needed to be done.”
Cougar coach Rod Tenney pulled Humphreys up from the junior varsity in the middle of his freshman season at CHS.
And for three and half years, Humphreys has been an anchor on both the offensive and defensive lines. Center, guard, tackle, end — Nick’s resume shows his versatility.
“I’ve had the opportunity to play with a lot of great guys,” he said. “A couple of them have taken the path that I’ve chosen to continue their careers (in college). I’ve had a chance to create a lot of bonds with some of my teammates that I will remember for the rest of my life.”
An extra special bond formed when Chris Jones took over the Cougar program the summer before Humphreys’ sophomore season.
With the coach came his son, Tyler, a linebacker who now plays at Concord University.
“Tyler kind of took me under his wing sophomore year,” Nick said. “He let me work out with him and showed me all the correct techniques and stuff.
He was kind of like a big brother to me. I really appreciated that. I’ve maintained contact with him, he’s been a really big help.”
Coach Jones speaks highly of Humphreys.
“Nick’s one of the finest young men you will ever meet,” said the Covington coach. “He really did a great job trying to lead our team this past year or two. He’s done a great job improving his academics over the past couple years to get himself in position to go to college. We think he’s going to do great things at Emory & Henry and in his life. We wish him nothing but the best.”
Emory & Henry, an NCAA Division III school, competes in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference.
“I was looking for a football program that is loved by the community as it is here,” Humphreys said of his college choice.
The Wasps are coming off a 4-5 season.
