In this episode of Cadets on the Gridiron, host Adam Bird sits down with Britton Anderson, a senior kicker on the West Point football team.

Anderson shares his journey to West Point, discussing the brotherhood and educational opportunities that drew him to the academy. He offers a glimpse into the demanding life of a cadet-athlete, balancing rigorous academics, military training, and football commitments. The conversation covers Anderson's recovery from an ACL injury, his transition from high school to college football, and his future plans in the military. Anderson also reflects on his favorite moments on the field and provides valuable advice for aspiring West Point athletes, emphasizing the importance of keeping an open mind to the unique opportunities the academy offers.

This episode provides an insightful look into the challenges and rewards of pursuing both athletic and military excellence at one of America's most prestigious institutions.

Welcome to Season 2! In this episode I sit down with senior linebacker Andon Thomas, one of the leaders and anchors of the Army football defense.

Andon opens up about his early doubts and what ultimately convinced him to commit to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. From a pivotal junior-year visit that changed everything, to embracing the academy’s no-fluff, mission-first recruiting style, Andon shares what made West Point stand apart from every other school.

Listeners get an inside look into the daily grind of a West Point student-athlete, the long hours, the academic intensity, football demands, and military obligations that define life on and off the field. Andon doesn’t shy away from talking about the challenges, but he also highlights the rewards: brotherhood, purpose, discipline, and moments like winning the AAC championship that he’ll carry with him for life.

From gridiron glory to future service in the Army, this conversation is about more than football, it’s about leadership, growth, and commitment. Whether you’re a fan of college football, a supporter of the military, or just love a good underdog story, this episode delivers.

🎧 Tune in to hear:

·       How the Army's recruiting approach differs from other schools

·       His proudest moments as a Black Knight linebacker

·       Life lessons learned through discipline and adversity

·       What comes next after the final whistle

👉 Don't miss this inspiring, real, and motivating conversation with one of West Point’s finest.

Today, we have a special treat for you: sophomore fullback Jake Rendina from Kalispell, Montana. Join us as Jake shares his journey from a small-town football star to a dedicated cadet at the United States Military Academy. We'll dive into his decision to choose West Point, his experiences balancing academics, military training, and football, as well as his aspirations for a future military career. Whether you're a young athlete considering West Point or just a fan of inspiring stories, this episode is packed with insights and heartfelt moments. Stay tuned!

Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Kanye Udoh, a sophomore running back who has already made a significant impact on the field.

Kanye opens up about the initial challenges he faced, from adapting to the rigorous academic schedule to the demanding physical training that all cadets must endure. He describes the daily balancing act required to excel both academically and athletically, and shares the strategies that have helped him manage his time effectively.

We also explore Kanye’s overall experience at West Point. He describes the campus as a place out of legend, with its grand architecture, rich history, and the deep sense of purpose it imparts to everyone who steps onto its grounds. Kanye reflects on the people who have supported him along the way, from professors who have become inspiring mentors to teammates who have turned into lifelong friends

Furthermore, Kanye offers a rare glimpse into his future ambitions. Although he's undecided about his specific military branch, his thoughtful approach to career planning and his willingness to embrace new opportunities showcase a maturity beyond his years. For younger athletes contemplating a similar path, Kanye provides invaluable advice on the importance of commitment and making informed decisions.

Join us as we delve deep into the life and aspirations of Kanye Udoh, a young man whose story is filled with dedication, resilience, and promise. 

Today, we are excited to bring you an exclusive interview with Noah Short, a junior running back for West Point football, hailing from San Jose, California. Join us as we dive deep into Noah's unexpected journey to West Point, his initial recruitment story, the culture shock of moving from the West Coast to upstate New York, and how he balances the rigorous demands of being a student-athlete at one of the most prestigious military academies in the world.

Noah opens up about his family's reactions, the challenges he faced in his first year, and a standout moment—blocking a critical punt in the iconic Army-Navy game. We also explore how his football experience shapes his leadership style and prepares him for future military service. Whether you're a football enthusiast, a prospective cadet, or someone looking for a dose of inspiration, this episode is a compelling testament to resilience, dedication, and heart. Stay tuned as Noah shares his goals for his military career, potential duty stations, and life beyond the gridiron. You won't want to miss it!

Hey everyone, welcome back to another episode of Cadets on the Gridiron. Today we have an incredible story lined up for you. Joining us is Max DiDomenico, a standout safety for the West Point football team. Originally from Schertz, Texas, Max's journey to West Point is nothing short of inspiring, especially when his plans  were disrupted by the pandemic. We'll dive into how he made the pivotal decision to join West Point, the unique recruitment process he experienced, and how he balances the demanding life of a student-athlete at one of the nation's most prestigious military academies. Max also shares personal insights on leadership, his future military aspirations, and some unforgettable moments from his time on the field. So, sit back and get ready to be inspired by another incredible story from the heart of West Point football!

Welcome to the debut episode of "Cadets on the Gridiron," where the journey to West Point meets the heart of Army football. I'm your host, Adam Bird, and today we have a special guest, Kaleb Fortner, a junior and standout inside linebacker from Knoxville, Tennessee. Kaleb shares his unique path to choosing West Point, his experiences as a cadet, and how he balances rigorous academics with the demands of Division I football. We'll dive into his favorite moments on the field, his leadership journey, and his future goals in the military and beyond. Plus, hear about the unbreakable bond he shares with his twin brother, also a cadet and football player, and the significant impact of West Point's brotherhood on his life. Stay tuned for an inspiring conversation that's sure to set the bar high!