TJ Bradford – Newcastle
By Bryce McKinnis
TJ Bradford was almost not part of Newcastle High School’s eight-game winning streak last season.
“I hurt my ankle early in my junior year,” Bradford, now a senior running back for the Racers, explained. “I didn’t know how long I would be out.”
Amid Bradford’s injury, the Racers started 1-3. One thing you should know about Bradford, in his own words: “I can overcome any kind of adversity.” Once he was cleared healthy, it was off to the races (pun intended) en route to district 5A-1 championship and state quarterfinal appearance — all in Newcastle’s first season in 5A. He rushed for over 1,500 yards.
“It took all of our team’s strength and determination to make it far in the playoffs, and the experience for me was exciting and rewarding due to how hard we worked for it,” Bradford said.
Also a standout track runner and powerlifter, Bradford’s natural athleticism has been apparent for years, but his leadership qualities have consistently improved. To him, being a Newcastle Racer means leadership, respect and fearlessness. As the Racers meet the midway point of the season, Bradford believes his team is a legitimate contender.
“My leadership role is definitely bigger than what I had last year,” Bradford said. “It will take determination and discipline from the whole team.”
Another thing to note about Bradford: he likes working on cars in his spare time. With as much space as football occupies in his daily schedule, it’s a worthy hobby to keep him grounded, but it also makes sense when you take into account what makes Bradford tick.
“I love the technicality of the game of football,” Bradford said.
The same way a car consists of hundreds of moving parts, the game of football, especially the running back position, consists of unpredictable components, and Bradford loves dissecting the game from a strategic viewpoint. His greatest goal in life is to continue dissecting the game as long as possible.
“I pray that my football career takes me all the way to the NFL,” Bradford said.
