Author : Aryan Virani
As the college football season is approaching, we were able to get the opportunity to interview incoming Army freshman Roy Gardner Jr. He was a playmaker in high school, as he was taking snaps at running back and quarterback, while also playing corner and safety.
To kick things off we asked Roy what the transition to college has been like for him:
Roy: The transition to the next level of regular college football is nothing like the transition to Army football. You have to go through basic training before fully admitted to the school. Basic training is no joke, there were times where I was sitting in my room asking myself what I got myself into. Basic training is not for the week, but everyone can get through it. It made me mentally and physically stronger and more disciplined which can carry over to the field.
2: What made you pick Army:
Roy: I chose Army because of the benefits coming out of it if my football career ends short. Coming to Army is like a blessing and it won’t be for everyone but if someone gets the opportunity it’s one in a lifetime. Everyone here gets their academics paid for and playing in a sports team is a plus. Also the relationships you build here are unbreakable. Lastly, if I graduate from here, I would become an officer and a second lieutenant and I would be placed as a boss in the job of my choosing.
- What is your favorite part about the Army football program:
Roy: My favorite part about army football is the bond and connections being built within everyone on the team. Everyone that has came here are from all parts of the country, but it feels like I’ve known these dudes all my life. Coach makes it mandatory that we know every single one of each others names because these are the guys I’m going to battle with for the next 4 years and these are the guys that I can call my brothers
- What are you most excited for as your college football career begins
Roy: Mostly what I am excited for is the feel of making big plays and showing everyone school that doubted me that just because I may have been “too small” I can still play ball.
- What should people know about you as an athlete?
Roy: As an athlete people should know that I am an unselfish player and will do whatever is best for the team whether it is giving up my position or working 10x harder to perfect my craft to make the team better overall
Army’s 2022 season wasn’t what they wanted, as they only won 6 games and did not make a bowl game. Head coach Jeff Monken, who’s in his 9th season of coaching, has lots of experience under his belt and knows how to rebuild his program. With Army’s aggressive rushing offense, Roy could potentially see himself making an immediate impact on the offense. He also has the ability to play in the secondary on defense so he could also see himself helping out there as well.