07 Sep 2016 ‘Focus’ important for Reed, Ramblers

by Mark Oliver

Last week, Rose Bud dropped its season opener to Quitman, 48-6. Despite the loss, however, Ramblers senior receiver Trenton Reed says the team learned a valuable lesson for the season ahead.

“Our biggest problem as a team is staying focused,” Reed said. “This season, we want to be better than that. Going forward, we’re really trying to hone in on getting everyone focused and mentally prepared for games. As one of the few seniors on the team, I’m doing my best to lead by example and help encourage the team to keep them on the right path.”

Reed was selected to this year’s 501 Football Team — 26 players representing all 11 counties of the 501. The team, sponsored by First Service Bank and First Security Bank, boasts the best the 501 has to offer both on and off the field. Reed was nominated by former Rose Bud head coach, Kevin Coleman.

“Trenton leads by example,” Coleman wrote in his nomination. “He will play physical, but will help you up after the whistle blows. He was our second-leading rusher last year, and I expect him to lead our offense and defense this year.”

This week, the Ramblers (0-1) look to get back on track against Marshall. However, the team will have to do it without Reed, who suffered a concussion against Quitman.

“Even though I’m not cleared to play this week, I’m doing everything I can to make sure we’re ready,” Reed said. “We’re really doing our homework this week.”

As the senior eyes his return to the field, Reed remains focused on both his personal goals and his team’s goals for 2016.

“It’s my senior year — I want to make many great memories this year,” Reed said. “As a team, we want to end the year with a winning record. By working hard and encouraging my teammates to stay focused, I think we can achieve that.”

One of Reed’s favorite football memories came a year ago in the Ramblers’ season finale against Atkins.

“It was our last game of the season, and it was also the last game for my brother [senior Devin Reed],” Reed said. “On the final play of the game, I threw a touchdown pass to Devin. It was pretty awesome and it will always be something we both remember.”

Aside from football, Reed also plays baseball and basketball for Rose Bud High School. In the classroom, the senior is also a member of FCA, FCCLA, Beta Club and FFA. In his free time, he enjoys the natural beauty of the 501 with family and friends.  

“I enjoy hunting and fishing with my grandpa, John Abbott,” Reed said. “He’s always been a big inspiration to me. I grew up without a dad for most of my life, and he’s always been a positive father figure for me. We’re always doing things together, and he has really helped me appreciate the outdoors.”

In his community, Reed is also active in his youth group at Center Point General Baptist in Quitman.

“Trenton is always willing to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with others,” Coleman wrote. “He also donates his time to his church and charitable causes in Rose Bud.”

After school, Reed plans to pursue a career in engineering or the military.

“Although I haven’t decided what I want to do yet, I’m confident that whatever my future goals are, I’ll work as hard as I can to achieve them,” Reed said.

Rose Bud plays at Marshall on Friday, Sept. 9.