The Saint Xavier University Football team is off to a great start in the 2017 season. Their leader, head coach Mike Feminis, is taking on his 19th season. The cougars are 3-0 on the young campaign. They travel for the “Ultimate Cougar Show-down” in Fort Wayne, Indiana facing the University of Saint Francis this weekend. The confidence level is high for the Cougars after defeating the Lindenwood University-Belleville Lynx 45-0 this past weekend.
Before the Cougars hit the road on Saturday, I got the chance to sit down with one of the members of the football team: Esau Hemphill. Hemphill is a senior Running back from Chicago, Illinois majoring in Criminal Justice. Hemphill began his college career with the Saint Xavier Cougars in 2014. He was recruited by coach Feminis and spent his first two years as a part of the secondary. With a large recruiting class, Hemphill took some time before breaking on the scene as a player. However, he transitioned from the backfield on defense to the backfield on offense. Hemphill converted to running back before the start of his junior year and accompanied guys like Stephen Simms and Mike Ivlow.
The senior running back understands there is life beyond football and is making the most of his opportunity on and off the field at Saint Xavier University. Not only is he a Student Athlete, he also works as a Resident Assistant in Morris Hall. Some of his accomplishments include: SXU Student-Athlete Bronze Medal Winner (2014), SXU Outstanding Scout Team Player of the Year (2014 and 2015), and SXU Special Teams Player of the Year (2016). When I sat down with Hemphill, we talked about how he started to play football along with some other interesting facts that you did not know about him before. Take a look!
When did you start playing football and why?
Esau: I started playing football in 8th grade because I had finally got the time to play. I also gained friendships out of the game.
Growing up, who was your role model?
Esau: Growing up, my mom was my role model before she passed. She showed me the true meaning of strength.
Did you always know you wanted to be a football player?
Esau: No my first love was actually basketball because at the time I was better at football . So, I started dedicating my time to football.
Why did you come to Saint Xavier University?
Esau: I came to Saint Xavier to graduate first, and then to play football. I gave up a full ride to Jackson State University. Plus, I wanted to be closer to my son.
Are there any pregame rituals you do before a game?
Esau: Yes. I get up, pray for my team Notre Dame, family, and listen to music until game time.
What was the most memorable game you’ve played?
Esau: I went into the first round of college playoffs and went into four overtimes in the snow. Unfortunately we came up short, but it was still a great game.
What will you miss about SXU after you graduate?
Esau: I will miss the football team, certain staff, and a meal plan (laughs).
What do you want to do after you graduate from SXU?
Esau: After graduation, I look forward to spending more time with my son and becoming a police officer or correctional office.
Do you have any hobbies?
Esau: For fun I love to play basketball, video games, watch movies, spend time with son and friends, and working out.
What’s your favorite song or music group to listen to?
Esau: My favorite song is I Wish by Robert Kelly.
Check in for the next edition of the Athlete Profile. I had a conversion with senior Robbie Brindley from your Saint Xavier Cougar Football team. Stay tuned!
Christine Manika
Sports Columnist