Hope for Hometown

Melanie Woods
WINTER GARDEN, Fla. -- “I always knew Demps was talented, but him making it to college and possibly pro really inspires a lot of people in the hood were we all grew up,” said Devonta Harmon.

Florida Gator running back Jeffery Demps, has had a very progressive year.

From running in the Olympic trials, excelling in his football season, and bringing home a championship ring his freshman year; Demps has given hope for young athletes in his hometown community.

“I’m glad my talent can inspire people in my community,” said Demps. “I lived a rough life growing up, all I had was the ability to run and play sports, so that’s what I continued to work on to be successful.”

Breaking numerous high school records, and being the fastest freshman in the nation, giving people hope was another amenity to add to his list of achievements.

“I didn’t know that showcasing my talent would go beyond the football field,” said Demps. “It makes me wonder what it will do for me if I go pro.”

Not only the kids in the community, but Demps’ parents also, showed nothing less than an air of the most proudest modesty when it came to their son.

“Watching Jr. play is the best part of my day,” said his mother Marilyn Demps. “But when I went to the big stadium to watch, all I could do for my baby was scream run, run, run!”

“All three of my boys have touched my heart in very special ways,” said Marilyn.

Being talented in both track and field and football has caught a lot of people’s eyes from all aspects of the state, and country.

“I know Jeffrey has an impeccable amount of talent,” said Derrick White, track coach and pro-athlete trainer. “Just a few moments of his time with my training could lessen his speed even more.”

“It would be an experience working together,” said White.

Jeffrey, who also goes by Jeff, and Jr., says just sticking to hard work and dedication is the key to any success, on and off the football field.

Giving hope to others, especially youth just shows he is talented in more area’s than he thought.

“My brother is the best in the world, and when I get big, I will be just like him,” said 5 yr. old brother Jahiem Demps.