By Derrick Smith

Each of us has someone that has had an influence on our life. Whether it was when we were a kid or after we entered adulthood, the impression that they made on us was huge. Gabe Cox says that throughout his life, he has a few people that fit that bill. 

“My parents are definitely my biggest influences and role models,” he said. “They have shown me what it means to follow the Lord wholeheartedly and have always pushed me to be the best I can be. Also, my football coach Todd Fulps, and my youth pastor Brady Neece have also invested countless hours helping me grow athletically and spiritually.”

Cox is a senior at Summit Christian Academy. He plays wide receiver and safety on the Eagles football team and on the basketball court he is a guard. 

There has been a lot of work that Gabe has put in over his career in order to grow and become the best that he can be. But he knows that his work will pay off in the end.

“It has taken countless hours of hard work over the years,” he stated. “I couldn’t even count the number of 6:00 a.m. workouts before school, film sessions at lunch and after church on Sundays, as well as the grueling summer workouts and practices. Most of all I would never have been able to accomplish anything if not for the grace and mercy of Jesus Christ.”

Throughout his career, Cox has made a lot of memories, both on and off the field and court. Out of all of them, he says that his final home football game would have to be his favorite for a few different reasons. 

“I had twenty-two tackles in my final home game at Summit,” he said. “We were playing our rival, Regent Prep. We beat them 58-46 and eliminated them from the playoffs.”

Away from sports, Gabe has also been a part of the student council and the National Honor Society. At his church, he is a member of the youth leadership team.