Presenting...Rick Coleman Jr.

Rick Coleman Jr (Source: Rick Coleman Jr.)

Painesville resident Rick Coleman Jr. Jr. is making big moves on and off the field. The recent Harvey High School graduate will be attending Cornell University to play college football, making him an inspiration to many.

Coleman’s passion for football was first sparked when he was four years old, after watching his father coach Harvey High School’s football team. Beingamongst individuals who were ambitious and excited about the sport ultimately ignited his own appreciation for it. Since then, he has dedicated his time and efforts to perfecting his craft.

“I’ve been around football my whole life,” Coleman said. “It was just something that came natural to me. I just went out there and played.”

Rick Coleman Jr. playing on Harvey High School’s varsity football team; Source: Rick Coleman Jr.

After receiving offers from several schools, Coleman made the decision to attend Cornell University. While there, he will be playing on the university’s football team as a cornerback.

Although playing football was a significant factor to consider, there were other elements that Coleman looked for in the school that he would soon call home. He admired Cornell's diverse environment, an important component that played a role in his final decision.

“I felt at home,” Coleman said in reference to the Ivy League school. “It's real diverse, and that's something I really look for as a black man. That's something I really made sure I was comfortable with.”

During his time at Cornell, Coleman will major in industrial labor relations and plans to pursue a career in sports management. In this profession, he hopes to become a sports agent and help others develop (and perfect) their craft.

When he’s not on the football field, he spends time working for his father’s restaurant, Jackpot Chicken Food Truck.

Rick Coleman Jr. (Source: Rick Coleman Jr.)

What pushes Coleman to continue pursuing his dreams are the young children who are inspired by him. Like them, he had great admiration for high schoolers. He strives to set a positive example.

“After a game, this kid came up to me and he was like, ‘can I give you something?’ I'm like, ‘yeah.’ He gives me a drawing that he made of me,” Coleman said. “Knowing that kids really look up to me…that's the person I want to be - I want to be that role model for somebody.”

As he prepares to forge into his next chapter, Coleman encourages readers to believe in themselves - despite what others say or believe.

“Believe in yourself,” Coleman said. “If you want to get somewhere, you can make it out of anywhere. I just want to prove everyone wrong. You can make something out of Painesville, Ohio. Just believe in yourself and everything will come to you.”