BY GENE NARDI
Jalen Young played for the Hawks football squad before graduating from Seminole Ridge High School with the Class of 2015.
Before his graduation last spring, he managed to earn Palm Beach County First Team honors playing both offense and defense for Seminole Ridge.
Young then signed to play on a full scholarship for Florida Atlantic University, and since has earned a starting role on the Owls defense as a safety.
To date, Young has tallied 75 tackles, three interceptions, four pass deflections and one forced fumble for the Owls this season. The true freshman has made a name for himself early on, starting in the Owls’ season-opening overtime loss to Tulsa.
Young was given the opportunity by Owls coach Charlie Partridge after the team’s safety sustained an injury, giving Young the chance to prove himself, and that he did. After the Tulsa game, he solidified himself on the defense as the starting safety.
Young had several Division I offers prior to his graduation from Seminole Ridge. Louisville, West Virginia, Minnesota, FIU, Temple and Bowling Green all had interest in the local standout. His decision was Florida Atlantic University because he liked where the program was headed, and he saw an opportunity to contribute in making FAU football history.
“I love coach Partridge,” Young said. “It’s also great because I am far enough away to have my own life but still be close enough to my family.”
Young added that the Owls have several other Palm Beach County players whom he played against in high school, such as Palm Beach Central’s Kemar Downer, a special team standout for the Owls. He has developed a bond with the other local athletes, making it easier to move through the transition from high school to the NCAA.
Young did stress that his transition from high school football to Division I college football was not easy.
“I had to learn that everyone was as good as I was,” he said.
Young’s athletic ability stood out, but it was his off-field dedication as well that contributed to his early success.
“I had to give 100 percent on and off the field, and study all new formations and plays,” he said.
Young’s motivation is fueled by his 13-year-old younger brother.
“We’re very close. I always think about him, and I do it for him,” Young said.
Family and education are highest on Young’s priority list.
“I am very close with my family, and being at FAU allows me to do that,” he added.
Young already has his career path mapped out, majoring in criminal justice. “I want to be an FBI agent,” he explained.
In the meantime, he is committed to becoming even better as a collegiate athlete, while remaining focused on his studies.
“It has been challenging academically,” he added. “They really help you through it when you come in, but I have to stay mentally tough.”
It is quite clear that Young fits the mold as a leader and is likely to be successful on and off the football field, serving as a role model for up-and-coming student athletes.
Young had this advice for the younger athletes still competing in high school who aspire to play at the collegiate level.
“Always strive to do better, and challenge yourself,” he said.
To follow Jalen Young and the FAU Owls, visit www.fausports.com.
ABOVE: Jalen Young plugs the hole during a run play against Marshall this season as an FAU Owl.
