Another standout Ignite performer from Jefferson was 2014 CB,  Chavez Pownell. What was evident was the number of reps he took. Usually during our events, athletes get plenty of opportunities to showcase their talent. But, I believe Pownell was stealing reps. You like to see this. You want to see hungry kids try and get more and more repetitions to get more chances of being recognized.

It worked. Not only did he get plenty of chances, he looked good. Pownell believes his strengths are man or zone coverage, confidence, route recognition, speed, agility and strength which makes him an “All around good corner,” he says in his own words. Even though, he does have much of what it takes to be a good corner and legit college prospect, he admits that, “I have to work on attacking the ball”. A big part of what college coaches look for when evaluating prospects.

Chavez attributes his recent success to hard work and continuously doing 1 on 1s everyday and footwork drills everyday. When asked what makes a good corner, his response was “You have to be smart, have a short term memory and speed. You got to want it more than the man who lines up in front of you. Gotta have that dog in you”. He had that dog in him earlier this month as he was one of the best defensive back performers at Ignite.

Last season Pownell was an Impact player for the Dragons. Totaled 4 interceptions, 58 tackles and 9 pass break ups. “When we played against a big time receiver, I would cover him”. He led the team in interceptions and pass break ups. “I returned kicks and led the DBs in practice.  To make sure we don’t slack and they made sure I didn’t either”.

Next season…
I’m going to be on both sides of the ball returning kicks and playing safety. We’re trying to make it happen this year. My goals are to lead the county in forcing turnovers. Since I’m playing safety, I have the chance to make plays on the ball more. Want our DBs to have the best secondary in the county. It’s definitely possible. – Chavez Pownell