Name: Kenny Spaight
School: Clarke University
Position: FS/RS
Height: 6-0
Weight: 190
Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
I have the record for longest interception return for touchdowns and received All-Conference awards twice during my time at Clarke, as well as being named the first in school history to be named Conference Player of the Week. I feel as if my achievements went above and beyond my expectations. My final collegiate season I just wanted to win. Maybe go to the playoffs. Maybe be able to play in some snow. Although we did not have a winning season and did not make the playoffs. I am proud and grateful to have been part of the program and looking forward to becoming part of a new program.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
My teammates and coaches say that I am without a doubt a leader, not only on the field but off the field. Someone selfless and willing to do whatever it took to help my team be successful. They would tell you the passion I have for the game is unmatched, I treat every second on the field like it could be my last play. They would say that I watch a ton of film. And football in general to envision plays before they happen. And that I am a violent football player. One of my coaches told me “you may never have 11 Kenny Spaight’s on your team, but you always need 1.” Which plays a role in me inrealizing my potential. (Thanks Coach!)
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
When studying film I go through my pre-snap reads as if I were in the game, what do I see pre movement, pre snap, what is the coverage, my alignment, are there possible checks and what formation they are in. Looking at an offense and the splits of the WRs can tell you a lot about what is about to typically unfold. I try to focus on what is in front of me at that moment in time to not get discombobulated when there is a lot of “noise.” What I mean by that is when players are motioning and shifting and yelling and hooting and hollering, I make my reads at what is immediately in front of me then progressing down the line to prevent confusion. As a safety it is important for me to be locked in to ensure the rest of the unit is also locked in as well. Also, I was once told “How are you going to know what to do if you’ve never seen it done before.” So, watching the big plays are important to me if I expect myself to make the big play.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
What will separate me from other prospects for starters is my age, I am 30 years of age and still show hunger and passion for the game., I consider myself a leader, a life coach, a mentor, a brother, a friend. I am aware that hard work is the only way through which am willing to put in the work to make a name for myself as well as help whatever team be successful. I am very coachable and can play any position I am asked to play. Iam confident in my abilities to do such. I am the type of player to put it allon the line for my team. All in all what you are getting out of me is all of me. There is a quote I like to live by… “You ask for my hustle, I’ll give you my heart.”
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
My plans as preparation for professional opportunities is to continue and keep my body healthy, eating right, training, and proper rest. As for training I always used myself and my own background knowledge of the game as well as research to improve my game drastically (with some training back in California). Although, having a trainer allows me to focus on the work and not everything that goes into setting up workouts which would be nice for the future. As of right now I do not have a trainer being that I live in a small town of Dubuque, IA (originally from California) and have yet to find the proper trainer that can help me elevate more than I can help myself. So as of right now I will continue to train on my own in hopes of getting an opportunity to showcase my talents to teams and coaches.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
Some of my strengths include knowledge for the game, I study film, I will always be around the ball. I can make the big play when necessary, I play sideline to sideline, I am humble, selfless, a team player. If I get my hands on the ball my intentions are to take it to the house. I have leadership skills both on and off the field but I just like to consider myself as a great friend and an aspiring great man. I was able to turn my life around and in turn (without getting into specifics) became a good role model for myself, my family and for my community. Whoever takes a chance on me will not have to worry about my attitude or my ego.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
By adding me to your roster you are adding a team player. Someone who is ready NOW and does not have to be molded or take a year to develop. I have an incredible background story and being to this point seemed impossible at one point. Whichever opportunities present themselves I will forever be thankful for each. Because through the years, win, lose, or draw, I already beat the odds.
