In his senior year, Atkins has left his pawprints on Bulldog history.
Now, he plans to earn his stripes at LSU.
Senior Xavier Atkins won VYPE’s public school defensive player of the year Jan.18. Atkins is a 4 star linebacker, who is committed to Louisiana State University.
“This award means so much to me,” Atkins said. “It shows that all the hard work we put in during the summer and during the season paid off.”
Atkins was born and raised in Louisiana. This year, the Bulldog community welcomed him with open arms.
“This community is so special, they really have the Bulldogs backs,” Atkins said. “The parents supported us through everything, everyone is so engaged with the kids. It really means a lot.”
Growing up in Louisiana was the biggest reason for committing to LSU. Moving from Louisiana to Texas was a big change for Atkins. However, he thrived.
“Coming from Louisiana to Texas was a lot,” Atkins said. “It was a lot to adjust to, especially coming from a small school to a big school.”
The coaches helped ease his transition to a new school and have made a large impact on Atkins’ career. These teaching moments are invaluable lessons that he will bring with him to LSU.
“The coaches developed me a lot, between teaching the small things about being a linebacker and being a team player overall,” Atkins said. “Little things like film and scouting reports really make a big difference in making a player better.”
This year’s football season was full of triumphs and successes. The Bulldogs made history by being the first Humble ISD school to make it to state, and compete for a state championship.
“My favorite memory was definitely when we beat Hightower and Cibolo Steele,” Atkins said. “Everyone was filled with emotions and so excited. Everything we have been through together as a team and the hard work we put in really paid off.”
Committing to LSU was an “easy decision” for Atkins.
“I was originally committed to Missouri,” Atkins said. “When LSU offered me, I knew it was the one.”
Now, being committed to LSU, Atkins gets to go home and play in front of his family and friends.
“I am so excited to get a chance to play in front of my family and all the people I grew up with,” Atkins said. “I can’t wait to be around the atmosphere of Death Valley.”
Atkins doesn’t have much longer until he heads up to Death Valley. In the meantime, he is focused on healing his body and working towards achieving his goals in a Tiger uniform.
“I start with the team on May 25th, right after graduation,” Atkins said. “During the offseason, I plan to take a break and let my body rest, then work hard and compete everyday.”
Playing in a Bulldog uniform has taught Atkins many valuable skills and lessons. Most of all, he is prepared to play in loud and hostile atmospheres.
“SCHS has prepared me to play in that type of environment and atmosphere,” Atkins said. “Being able to play in front of thousands of people, and playing against great athletes in the SEC.”
