Rick Patrick
ECB Publishing, Inc.
For Monticello native Zoron Wade, opportunities may have seemed to be few and far between. Having to deal with a seeming revolving door of coaches at a school that was on the brink of takeover by the state did little to help catch the eye of major college recruiters. However, while many of his teammates left the school for other programs, Wade stayed at Jefferson County High School (JCHS). Wade's mother insisted on Wade sticking it out, partly to serve as an inspiration to others.
Wade did stick it out at JCHS, earning a 3.0 grade point average and the respect of many for his attitude and performance on, and off, the field. During Wade's senior year, when major college scholarship offers failed to pan out, other concerned supporters decided to step in. One supporter, who wanted to remain anonymous, offered to help Wade with books and tuition during his first year of college. This generous offer helped Wade to sign with Florida A and M University (FAMU), in Tallahassee. Wade signed to play as a “preferred walk-on” which would allow him to participate with the team and put him in good stead, when a scholarship did become available. That was in 2017.
Fast forward to today. Wade finished his undergraduate degree at FAMU in the fall of 2020 and began work toward a Master's in criminal justice. Wade has just finished his Master's degree and now has his eyes set on obtaining a doctorate.
“Always keep your head straight and stay focused,” suggested Wade to younger folks. “[There are] going to a lot of distractions and obstacles on the journey, but you cannot forget your 'WHY?' Anytime you are facing hard times, just remember how far you've come, and where you are trying to go. Be mindful of your time and never let critics change your confidence level. The most important thing is to always keep God first.”
Wade's life is a living embodiment to his own words of wisdom. The future is certainly a bright one for this Tiger.
Wade is the son of Ronzo Wade and Errin Mays.
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