Salina High School senior Jescee Sanders has built his reputation on discipline, resilience and a deep sense of purpose, both on and off the football field.
A 12th-grade running back, Sanders embraces one of the most demanding positions in the game. He said the role requires quick thinking under pressure.
“The hardest part is being able to make fast and accurate decisions,” Sanders said.
That mental preparation begins long before kickoff. Sanders relies on visualization and routine to stay sharp.
“The thing I do in pre-game to get prepared is go over plays in my head, work through scenarios so I can get my mind sharp for fast decisions,” he said. “And if I am nervous, I like to pray to calm my nerves, so they don’t affect my game.”
His approach reflects a larger mindset shaped by both athletics and personal influences. Sanders credits his uncle, Ethan Sanders, as the biggest inspiration in his life.
“He has always wanted the best for me and for me to achieve my dreams,” Sanders said. “He has pushed me to become the best version of myself on and off the field.”
That motivation shows up in his commitment to improvement and his connection with teammates. Sanders said the team’s competitive nature drives everyone to elevate their performance.
“The most thing I enjoy about being on my team is how competitive we all are and will push ourselves to achieve what we want,” he said.
Beyond competition, the team’s bond stands out even more.
“The thing I love most about my team and teammates is how close we all are,” Sanders said. “No matter the circumstance, we will always have each other’s back.”
That unity has produced memorable moments, including one that Sanders considers his favorite.
“My favorite memory from a game is when me and my teammates made the game-winning tackle to secure a spot in the playoffs,” he said.
Not all experiences on the field have been celebratory. Sanders recalled a sobering moment that underscored the risks of the sport.
“The craziest thing I have seen on the football field is when one of my teammates had to be carted off of the field due to a neck injury,” he said.
Experiences like that have shaped his perspective, reinforcing lessons that extend beyond football.
“Athletics has taught me that even though things get hard, there is always a brighter side to it,” Sanders said. “And if you keep going and push yourself, you can achieve all your goals.”
Off the field, Sanders maintains balance through time spent outdoors and with loved ones. He enjoys hunting, fishing and spending time with friends and family.
In the classroom, he finds motivation in English, his favorite subject, where teacher Mackinze Greene-Beck has made a lasting impact.
“She always created time to help me on every roadblock I encountered,” Sanders said.
As Sanders prepares to graduate, his journey reflects more than athletic performance. It highlights perseverance, leadership and a commitment to growth shaped by family, teammates and mentors. Those qualities, he said, will continue to guide him long after his final high school game.
