ITG-SG / September 2016
Tearing up the gridiron in Region 1-AAAA is the most recent strong arm of the Cougars, weak side defensive end Markaviest Bryant. The Crisp County native is a four-year letterman in both football and basketball, but the stadium lights best illuminate his heart and athletic passion.
“I’m Crisp County, born and raised,” Bryant said. “This is my home; this is my heart. I love this place, and I’m here for a purpose. I want to make this place remember me. I want to make this city proud.”
Like most of his contemporaries, Bryant began his football career at the tender age of 7. However, he was introduced to the game much earlier. The pavement of Cordele, Georgia, was his first gridiron.
“It’s crazy thinking about how it all started,” Bryant said. “All I played was street football. It was all I knew. I just love this game, and it stuck with me early on.”
He tried to play in his first flag football league at around 7 or 8 years old; unfortunately, there were a limited number of spots on the roster. His first experience with tackle football came at around 9 or 10 years old, and the game has been a staple of his life ever since.
Last season, Bryant led the region in sacks en route to being named to the All-Region First Team for Region 1-AAAA. He was also named Most Improved by his teammates. While his work ethic cannot be called into question, there is quite the factor that has also assisted him in his quest for greatness.
“Man, I shot up out of nowhere,” Bryant said with a laugh. “My sophomore year, I was, maybe, 6’0” and 180, 185 pounds. But I hit a growth spurt, and the next thing you know, I’m sitting at 6’4” and around 225. That was the push I needed. After that, I hit the gym harder, I worked harder, and I took all of this more seriously.”
His talent has earned him quite the list of collegiate recognition. Already knocking on his door are around 85 universities, all with offers. Topping the list are LSU, Alabama, Clemson, Florida, Michigan State, Miami, and Florida State. UGA currently owns the premier position on Bryant’s radar, but as of this interview, an official decision has not been made.
“I’m not saying I’m going to UGA,” Bryant said. “Not yet. To be honest, I didn’t even picture myself as D-I caliber until colleges started calling. It’s a nice surprise, but it’s a big decision to make and one that can impact my life forever. I really have to take the time to think about what’s best for me, athletically and academically. I also have to think about my family as well.”
Outside of the game, the young star has done quite a bit of thinking about his future as well. He would like to major in mechanical engineering and sees himself in a career where he can utilize his hands.
“The NFL would be great, but look at the numbers,” Bryant said. “You can dream all day, but not everybody makes it that far. I’m not going to put all of my eggs in one basket and say ‘I’m going pro.’ My education is what will make my future, and I am going to make sure that my education sets me up for success. Bottom line.”
For now, however, Bryant has a nation of Cougar faithful to shine for one last time. He said that, in order for Crisp County to reach the top of the mountain, it’s going to take a strong team effort. They will have to play as one unit and hold each other accountable at all times; they will have to bond and stick together during the gruel of a long season.
“It’s my job to be a leader,” Bryant said. “I don’t want to sound cliché, but I can be better. I’m good, but I’m not great. I have to push past my limits. There are a lot of kids out there that want what I have. I’m blessed to be in this position, and I can’t waste it. I know that my focus and drive will be a spark for the team.”
Bryant is playing with the proverbial chip on his shoulder. From the onset of his young athletic career, it has been excuse after excuse from doubters as to why he would not accomplish what he has.
“I was told I wasn’t big enough,” Bryant said. “I was told I wasn’t strong enough and that I wasn’t fast enough. All of that gets taken into consideration, and it drives me. I don’t play to prove them wrong, though. I play to be the best Markaviest Bryant I possibly can. I know that alone will prove them all wrong. They all say they’re good…but I’m going to show it. I want to be perfect… that’s my motivation.”
ITG Web Content
Senior Cougar Shines With The Lights
By James A. Washington
