South Grand Prairie has been on a high as of late. They’ve made the playoffs every year since 2014, notable alum Jeff Okudah was taken third in the NFL Draft, and they were realigned. They could’ve been moved to the district of doom with DeSoto, Cedar Hill, Duncanville, and others.
For the past two years though they haven’t been able to get above the bi-district hump. Two years in a row a 5-6 record. Two years in a row a loss to perennial powerhouse Duncanville.
If they want to get over that hump, they’re going to have to rely on their star playmaker, Deamikkio Nathan.
In 2018, Nathan was a First-team all-district selection as a sophomore with 26 catches for 362 yards a touchdown. In 2019, he improved dramatically on those numbers with 47 catches for 582 yards and four touchdowns. He also added 218 rushing yards and two scores on the ground to his incredible season.
“My Character, skills, and great work habits,” Nathan said on what leads to his personal success.
Nathan is a three-star wide receiver via 247Sports. He’s ranked as the 156th wide receiver for the 2021 class and thus the 161st ranked player in the state of Texas. He recently narrowed down his recruitment to his top eight schools. Arizona, Boise State, BYU, Houston, San Diego State, Texas Tech, Tulane, and Utah are all battling for Nathan’s services.
Nathan says his recruitment has been going “pretty smooth.” In total, he’s received 17 offers.
South Grand Prairie by all means doesn’t have a cakewalk in 2020. They don’t have De Soto and Cedar Hill in their district anymore. But, they still have to take on the likes of Arlington, Arlington Bowie, Arlington Houston, Lamar, Martin, and Grand Prairie.
Nevertheless, Nathan is motivated and looking forward to his senior season.
“Improve on the field, obtain as much education as possible, and enjoy our last year of high school. Win District and state as well!” Nathan exclaims.
With UIL rules in place and schools being shut down due to COVID-19, it’s been difficult for athletes to get in the training that they need. Nathan however has been doing his best to stay in tip-top shape for his final high school season.
“Running and utilizing the workout equipment I have at home, which consist of weights, resistant bands, treadmill, and stationary bike,” Nathan said.
Nathan has been a force to be reckoned with for the past two years. Expect even more out of him in his final season. He’s going to make the new teams in his district, regret that the UIL even realigned him there.
“I live by the 3 D’s, which is Determination, Decisiveness, and Dedication.”
