Back in 2023, I had the opportunity to speak with DJ Mitchell, who at the time was about to enter his Freshman year of high school. He had not taken a snap in High School football yet, but he had been putting the work in for years leading up to that. Our conversation was awesome as we got to know DJ and his character. We got to understand what he enjoyed on the football field as well as what he enjoyed off the field.
DJ talked to me about some of the concerns he had going into the next phase of his career. Some of those things included being a good leader and seeing if he would be able to adapt to the speed of the game. He also was trying to become a better passer to go along with his running.
Now, flash forward to 2026, and we just had the chance to speak with DJ again. He’s now in the middle of his final year as the quarterback for La Habra High School’s football program.
And this conversation was awesome because I got to really hear and understand just how much he’s improved in these last four years and how much he’s grown up!
See, DJ has continued to keep his faith in the Lord, and has remained grounded in his beliefs which has been a major factor in his overall growth for football.
I loved chatting with him because not only is he a leader, he’s also a champion. DJ led the team to a CIF Championship last year and looks to do the same this year. He’s evolved as a QB (and is a true dual threat) and he’s a Cal Poly commit.
Talking with him was awesome because I can remember it like it was yesterday that we were talking about things before school started. And to see him take the world by the horns and really embrace his role as a leader on the football field and in the community, was really cool!
I love circling back because when someone is a guest on my podcast, they become family to me. If someone is willing to share their story on MY platform? Well, you’d best believe they’re going to have a life-long supporter in me and I’m extremely grateful for the chance to have DJ join me!
Looking forward to running it back in another four years and seeing where DJ goes.
These types of athletes inspire me. They are the ones who know they’re talented and they put in a ton of work, but they also remember where they came from and what’s important in life.
Those are the types of people you keep in your circle long-term!
Shoutout to DJ! And they have a fan from Idaho (in me) rooting for them! Go Highlanders!