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In this episode, we tap into the real world of sports recruiting with Nicholas Herrera of Herrera & McGahee Sports Management. From what coaches actually look for to how athletes can stand out in a crowded field, this conversation breaks down the strategy behind getting noticed. Whether you’re an athlete, parent, or coach, you’ll walk away with a clearer understanding of how exposure, relationships, and consistency shape opportunities at the next level.
My name is Rashad “Roc” Carmichael, a 2011 fourth-round NFL Draft pick by the Houston Texans. After a six-year professional football career, I transitioned into scouting and now serve as a scout for the Reese’s Senior Bowl. Throughout my journey, I’ve used the lessons, experiences, and support I received to give back and help guide the next generation of athletes on and off the field.
Michael “Mike” Turner II is a dynamic 11th-grade athlete from Houston, making serious noise at Cypress Christian School. A multi-sport competitor in football and track, Mike has spent 8 years developing into an explosive running back wearing #2.
Despite being limited to just four games due to injury, he delivered elite production rushing for 618 yards on only 50 carries (an impressive 12.4 yards per carry) and scoring 6 touchdowns. On the track, his speed speaks for itself with a blazing 10.76 in the 100m dash, earning him District Runner-Up honors.
Mike’s impact goes beyond stats. He helped lead his team to a perfect 10–0 record and earned the “Team Over Me” award, highlighting his leadership and selfless mindset. Inspired by players like Christian McCaffrey and representing his hometown pride for the Houston Texans, Mike brings passion, discipline, and creativity including a talent for drawing both on and off the field.
This episode dives into resilience, leadership, and what it takes to stand out even when facing setbacks.
Mary Claire Zacharias is a 17-year-old broadcaster from St. James Academy in Lenexa, Kansas, with experience calling play-by-play for football and soccer, serving as a color commentator for girls basketball, and working as a sideline reporter and pregame show host. After a career-ending neck injury in her freshman year, she turned her passion for sports into broadcasting, covering over 60 games and dozens of pregame shows. Mary Claire loves telling the stories behind the athletes and sharing her deep knowledge of the game. She aspires to work for ESPN as a SportsCenter host or sideline reporter. Her advice to aspiring broadcasters: put in the work, embrace mistakes, trust the process, and let your preparation shine.
David King is a 17-year-old multi-sport athlete from Duncanville, Texas, competing at Duncanville High School. A dynamic football player (WR/DB/QB) and standout track athlete, David combines elite speed with fearless competitiveness. He has posted personal bests of 10.68 (100m), 21.66 (200m), and 49.69 (400m), and qualified for the Junior Olympics in his first year of AAU track.
A state championship qualifier in football, David thrives under pressure by staying present, trusting his preparation, and attacking every moment with confidence. Inspired by Kyler Murray’s versatility and leadership, he is driven daily by his family’s support and his commitment to becoming the best version of himself.
David is currently exploring college opportunities where he can grow academically and athletically while competing at the highest level.
At just 16, Robenson “Robi” Duclona from Bishop Verot High School in Fort Myers is proving that discipline and faith pave the road to success. Standing 6’1” and 187 pounds, Robi discovered his love for football at age six and has never looked back. Inspired by his hardworking parents and driven by the success of his brothers, Jonas and Jason, Robi has turned obstacles like a tough transfer year into lessons in perseverance. In this episode, he shares how staying calm under pressure, trusting his process, and keeping his faith strong have shaped his journey. With his first offer on the table and many more to come, Robi is locked in on the season ahead and ready to find his future home.
In this episode of the podcast, we go Beyond the Diamond with Trenton Jowsey (@Trentonjowsey88) — a rising RHP/C/OF and one of Colorado’s top 2025 prospects. ⚾️
Caleb Cruz, better known as “Cruz Control,” is a 2027 defensive back (ATH) from Midland Christian. Standing at 5’10” and 170 lbs, Caleb is not only making waves on the field with his speed (4.5 40) and versatility, but also in the classroom with a 4.3 GPA. Already turning heads with his work ethic and discipline, Caleb returns to the show to share what’s new in his journey as a student-athlete chasing the next level.
He’s back! Noah Patell returns to the show for Round 2. The Durant High School WR (c/o 2028) shares what’s been going on since his first visit and where he’s headed next.
Name: Jimmy Allen
Age: 18
Height/Weight: 5’9, 160 lbs
Location: Sheffield, England
Teams: Great Britain U19 (Tackle), Great Britain U21 (Flag)
Positions: Wide Receiver / Cornerback
Experience: 2x Great Britain athlete with less than a year in the sport
International Caps: 1 (2-day international flag football tournament)
My Football Journey
I first discovered football in 2022. One evening, I was heading to my sister’s house and saw my brother-in-law watching a game on his tablet — Jaguars vs. Giants. I asked him about it, and from that first game, I fell in love with the sport.
My Mindset
I’ve always been a perfectionist. Whatever I do — school, sport, or life — I have to do it better than anyone else. If I don’t train, I picture someone else gaining an edge on me, and I can’t allow that.
Inspiration
For me, there are two sides to this. First, I draw inspiration from the people around me. British football players are determined and ambitious, and being surrounded by that mindset pushes me forward. Second, I believe life ultimately comes down to yourself. Only you can drag yourself out of bed for those 5 a.m. runs and solo field sessions. Support systems are important, but at its core, success is a battle with your own mind.
Highlight Moment
Seeing my name on the official squad list for Flagapalooza (an international tournament in May) was the first time everything felt “real.” Up until then, it had just been camps and training — but that moment showed my work was paying off.
Handling Stress
If I get stressed, all I need is 10 seconds to myself. Whether I’ve dropped a pass or made a mistake, that short time alone resets me completely.
Game Day Routine
I don’t really have rituals — it depends on the day. Sometimes I’ll zone in with music during warmups, other days I’ll be relaxed and joking around with teammates. I’ve never been tied to superstitions, even back when I played soccer.
Challenges
The biggest challenge is the logistics of British football — from travel distances to varying levels of play. I started out on a public park, and some days only one other player showed up to training. But I stuck through because of my passion for the sport.
Advice for Others
Believe in yourself. No elite athlete doubts themselves before a game. They all share one thing in common: ego. Not destructive ego, but the type that says, “I can do this. I am good enough. I can outplay the other team.” A controlled ego will carry you a long way.
Future Goals
Like most European players my age, I’ve dreamed of playing college ball in the U.S., but the infrastructure and costs make it nearly impossible without a full-ride scholarship. I was invited on a Gridiron Imports camp tour, but the price was unrealistic. So, my focus is here in the U.K. — playing for the University of Sheffield Sabres and pushing toward the ultimate dream: representing GB flag football in the Olympics.
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Favorites & Fun Facts
• NFL Player: Foye Oluokun (Jaguars LB)
• NFL Team: Jacksonville Jaguars (DUUUVAL)
• Snack: A Dutch oat protein bar (still can’t remember the name!)
• Other Interests: Piano, golf, geography
• Hidden Talent: Playing the piano — I don’t mention it much, but whenever I find one, it always gets a reaction.
Socials
• Twitter: @_jaallen
• Instagram: @jallen.x
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