Joaquin Vela of Kingwood Football has emerged as one of Texas Football’s premier punters and student-athletes this season. He is set to continue his football career at the collegiate level, representing Kingwood while playing for Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) and studying Mechanical Engineering at a premier institution.

We recently had the opportunity to speak with Joaquin about his sports journey and to seek advice for upcoming students and peers. His responses showcased a mature understanding of the dedication required to pursue sports at the college level. We were especially struck by how his answers highlighted his reliance on his faith and emphasized the composure and patience required to reach this stage in his journey.

“I was never expecting to play sports in college. In the midst of my middle school B-team years, I remember coming home from football practice in search of more. More of what? To put it lightly, I sought after a feeling which bestowed an immense joy and peace which I cannot describe in words. I have a penchant for punting. I can confidently say that I never played football for any goal. Although I have had many significant achievements, my “why” was always rooted in my love for punting. About a month after the football season ended, I sat down and asked God “What do you want to do with my football career?” If you know me, you know that I am the least deserving person on the Kingwood High School Varsity Football team to play in college. However, by God’s everlasting grace and mercy, He opened a passageway for me. After many months of patience, confusion, and prayer, I stand here blessed with the opportunity to persist in playing the sport dear to my heart, diligently working hard-idly in His name, for His kingdom, and for His glory.

If you play any sport, my absolute number one piece of advice would be: do not put your life and soul into your sport. For many years, my life was based around football, and to this day, it stands as one of my biggest regrets. Don’t get me wrong, sports have many valuable lessons and essential life skills to offer, but based on my personal experiences, I believe it is not something worth centering one’s life around. In short, my advice would be to not idolize your sport.” – Joaquin Vela