Zach Anderson: In my eyes football is more than just football it’s a way of life. It’s something I’ve dedicated my life to since 5 years old. This sport can’t just be on the outside it has to be in you. When you go through the injuries, losses, and hard times, you grow to love it even more.
Joe Gaiter: What are your fondest memories about Cairo High School?
Zach Anderson: The best high school in the country. Cairo High School was big on tradition and the way it was going to keep going over the years. Playing under those Friday night lights and the feeling I get thinking about it till this day I’ll never forget.
Joe Gaiter: Tell us about your recruitment experience.
Zach Anderson: My recruitment experience in my eyes was ok. Not really how I wanted to be. I didn’t have all the visits to go to and coaches calling my phone but I didn’t complain because God had a plan for me and i thank him for that.
Joe Gaiter: Why did you choose Fort Valley State?
Zach Anderson: Fort Valley was the only team that gave me a chance and I took it. Look at me now.
Joe Gaiter: What are your thoughts of FVSU 6-4 2019 season?
Zach Anderson: I look at that season as a statement season. We proved to the SIAC that we wasn’t no pushovers because that’s what they were thinking coming off a 2-8 season in 2018. After the season was over we said that’s not happening no more we came together as a team put in the work and grinded for what we wanted. We got the results of going on a 6 game winning streak. Still might not be the best but the dedication we had was what got us there and that’s what you love to see in this game of football.
Joe Gaiter: What has been your contribution to the team?
Zach Anderson: My contribution to the team is being the leader not so much a vocal leader but a leader of action and doing. I’m somebody that’s going to give it 100% in everything I do and I want all my teammates to do the same. I want even the coaches when coaching us give us your 100%.
Joe Gaiter: Tell us about the FVSU football culture and home game experience.
Zach Anderson: You get a real HBCU experience. It is unique and you won’t find anywhere else. From the band playing loud as they can to the fans screaming to the top of their lungs, it’s something that will stay with you forever.
Joe Gaiter: Describe your style of play as a Defensive back?
Zach Anderson: I think of myself as an all-around DB. I’m a person that has every attribute in that position. To me being a great ball player you have to be able to do all the things your position requires at a high level. I can cover, you can bring me down in the box to get physical, play deep third, and come down hill to lay that thump on somebody. Whatever my coaches need me to do I can do it.
Joe Gaiter: What did it mean to be named First Team All-Conference?
Zach Anderson: It was a very special honor. It let me know that all my hard work was not in vein. People realize that I am the top safety in the conference, so that really means a lot to me.
Joe Gaiter: What game are you most looking forward to next season?
Zach Anderson: I haven’t won a classic since I’ve been there and this my last year. Albany State, I’m on your head! That’s all I have to say.
Joe Gaiter: What is your major and how do you plan on using it?
Zach Anderson: My major Computer Science. I plan on working the IT department for large corporations. I also while trying to get my masters in Aerospace Engineering.
Joe Gaiter: How did you overcome adversity this year?
Zach Anderson: Adversity is something that comes with a lot of things you do in life but that can’t be the reason you stop because nothing is easy. Just keep your head up and keep grinding day by day. You will overcome anything.
Joe Gaiter: What is your untold story?
Zach Anderson: Being the under dog most of your life turns you into a different type of monster. You start to grind different and with purpose. I was always thought to be the average player but at the end turns out to be one of the best.
Joe Gaiter: Who are some athletes we need to keep on our radar?
Zach Anderson: You need to have eyes on everybody that touch the field on our team.
Joe Gaiter: What is your motivation?
Zach Anderson: Sometimes the most realest motivation has to come from within because it’s you that has to keep going. So my motivation is myself. Why keep doing something and not be great at it.
Joe Gaiter:What do you want your legacy to be?
Zach Anderson: I want to be remembered as the real definition of a ball player. A solid person on and off the field. A person that kept at all times whether it was good or bad. Somebody that put the work in and deserve every accolade he received.
Joe Gaiter: Final Words?
Zach Anderson: Never fold, Pain is only temporary.
Joe Gaiter: Shout outs?
Zach Anderson: Shoutout to the family, friends, and coaches who been solid since we met.
Instagram: @khid.zach
Twitter: @KhidZach
Zach Anderson, Fort Valley State, Interview with Joe Gaiter was last modified: June 5th, 2020 by Joseph Gaiter
