NORTHERN STATE UNIVERSITY | News Wolves Athletics Feature Blake Clay - Northern Football BLAKE CLAY, Junior Hometown: Whittier, CA Major: Sports Administration IN THE HEART of Aberdeen, amidst the vibrant community of Northern State University, one name stands out among the sea of student-athletes: Blake Clay. With a spirit fueled by determination and a heart brimming with passion, Clay has carved a path of excellence off the football field. The path taken by this exceptional student-athlete is marked by a journey through the milestones, obstacles and aspirations that characterize his collegiate tenure. Clay’s journey began in the sun-drenched streets of Whittier, California, where he first discovered his love for football. Graduating from La Serna High School with an impressive 4.17 cumulative GPA, Clay’s academic excellence is matched only by his dedication to the game. But beyond the accolades lies a deeper connection to the Aberdeen community, a place he now proudly calls home. “The Aberdeen community is great,” Clay said, reflecting on the past three years at Northern State University. “Being surrounded by all these people and supporters is amazing.” It’s this sense of camaraderie and support that has propelled Clay forward, inspiring him to excel both on the field and in the classroom. For Clay, the decision to play for Northern was about more than just football—it was about finding a family away from home. “The thing that really stood out to me from the start is how welcoming Coach Schmidt and Coach Iery were during the recruiting process,” he explains. Coupled with state-of-theart facilities and the opportunity to play at the Division 2 level, Northern quickly became the obvious choice for Clay. However, the road to success hasn’t been without its challenges. Balancing a demanding schedule of athletic training, academic commitments, work obligations and a social life is no easy feat. Yet, Clay tackles each day with unwavering resolve, drawing inspiration from his father, Jason, and sister, Haylee, both of whom have played pivotal roles in shaping his journey. As a role model in his community, Clay understands the importance of giving back. Whether it’s coaching at his old high school or mentoring young athletes, he embraces the opportunity to inspire others to pursue their dreams. His achievements, off the field, speak volumes about his dedication and work ethic, from earning a scholarship to being selected for prestigious forums and launching impactful initiatives like Behind the Pack and Northern State Sportscasting. Clay’s commitment to sports broadcasting and his efforts to develop the up-and-coming program at Northern State University are noteworthy. His involvement in Northern State Sportscasting not only showcases his passion for sports media but also underscores his dedication to enhancing the university’s athletic community. Clay’s contributions to the program exemplify his role as a trailblazer for future students interested in sports broadcasting and media. Moreover, Clay’s recent acceptance to the NCAA Career in Sports Forum further illustrates his dedication and work ethic. This prestigious forum provides a platform for student-athletes like Clay to explore career opportunities and gain valuable insights into the sports industry, highlighting his commitment to personal and professional development. But perhaps what sets Clay apart is his unwavering resilience in the face of adversity. Dealing with injuries and managing stress have tested his mettle, but he approaches each challenge with a focused mindset, taking it one step at a time. Looking ahead, Clay is determined to continue his involvement in athletics, pursuing a career in sports administration with aspirations of becoming a play-by-play football broadcaster. Coaching remains a passion he intends to pursue, further cementing his commitment to the world of sports. As Clay reflects on his collegiate journey at Northern State University, he does so with gratitude and anticipation for the future. With two more years ahead of him, Clay is poised to leave a lasting legacy at NSU and in the hearts of those he inspires. His story serves as a testament to the power of determination, resilience and the unwavering pursuit of one’s dreams. In the bustling world of collegiate sports, Clay shines brightly as a beacon of excellence, illuminating the path for future generations of student-athletes to follow. Balancing Excellence on the Field and in Academia
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