University of Houston Athletics
From Houston to Nigeria and Back: My Journey Beyond Football
9/13/2023 11:37:00 AM | Football
Offensive lineman Patrick Paul details his upbringing, what it means to be a captain for the hometown team
By Patrick Paul, Houston Junior Offensive Lineman
Unconventional upbringing
My journey through life has been a one diverse experience after another, each contributing to the person I am today. I was born and raised in the heart of Houston, Texas, a city known for its resilience and spirit. The roots from my early years run deep here. Houston is my home, my sanctuary.
However, when I was around seven years old, my family embarked on a journey that would take us far from the familiar streets of Houston. We packed our bags and headed to Nigeria, a land rich in culture but vastly different from the world I knew. It was a place where technology had a different face, where life had a different rhythm.
For two and a half years, I called Nigeria my home, absorbing its unique flavors and traditions before my family and I returned to the United States – lured by greater educational opportunities and a brighter future. It was upon my return that I began my journey into the world of football, a passion that would shape my life in ways I never imagined.
My family is from Nigeria. My grandfather was the Major General and President in Nigeria in 1966 and my family has deep ties to the country. His life and legacy are what drove my desire to work in politics and government policy. One day I hope to return to Nigeria to help the communities and shape the culture through policy and politics.
Just like my big bro
Growing up, I was a sports enthusiast, trying my hand at nearly every game under the sun. My two older brothers were my role models, and I eagerly followed in their footsteps, embracing their passions as my own. Football was one of those passions, and with my brothers as mentors, I learned the intricacies of the game before I even set foot on the field.
Their example served as a guiding light, illuminating the path I would follow. We competed fiercely, but their experience and wisdom were invaluable, teaching me the essence of dedication and hard work. I looked up to them, emulating their discipline and commitment.
Not just a football player
Yet, football is just one facet of my life. I find solace in gaming, a hobby that captured my heart. It is an escape from the intensity of the field, a realm where I can unwind and immerse myself in virtual adventures. In college, I discovered martial arts and have been instantly fell in love with its grace and discipline.
Reading became another source of nourishment for my mind. I enjoy seeking knowledge through books about business and politics.
In the trenches
As a lineman, I take pride in my tenacity on the field. I strive to play the game cleanly, addressing past shortcomings and continually honing my skills, especially in the off-season when I focus on the run game. My tenacity is my trademark, the fire that burns within me every time I step onto the field.
My path to becoming a Division-I football player was far from normal. I wasn't highly recruited, but I persevered, fueled by my love for the game. I could have followed my brother to Tulsa, the school that gave me my first college scholarship offer. However, a few weeks later I went on my first visit to the hometown school, the school I ended up graduating from, the University of Houston. My choice to be a Cougar was guided by a sense of destiny. It felt like the right place for me, a homecoming to the city that had nurtured me.
The journey was not without its trials. I faced the challenge of being a true freshman, playing left tackle, blocking my quarterback's blind side and the pressure was nerve-wracking. But my coach's guidance and the support of my teammates carried me through. And in 2020, when a season-ending injury struck, I learned a valuable lesson: the game does not last forever, but the lessons it imparts endure. I had started five straight games over my first two years, and it felt like everything was coming to a screeching halt. Perseverance is in my blood. I had to bounce back.
The culmination, the reward
Becoming a team captain was an honor bestowed upon me by my teammates. It represents the trust and respect my teammates have in me, and I take this responsibility seriously. Leading by example is my mantra; a commitment to my team's success both on and off the field.
What's truly special about playing for the University of Houston and being a captain is that it's in my hometown. I think it's a great city and school and I'm glad I can represent it playing the sport I love.
To the people of Houston and all football enthusiasts, I extend an invitation: come support the city, and you won't regret it. We play tough football here, and with your support, we create a spectacle that embodies the heart and soul of our beloved Houston. Together, we put on a show that celebrates the spirit of our city and the passion for the sport we love.
Go Coogs! 🐾
Unconventional upbringing
My journey through life has been a one diverse experience after another, each contributing to the person I am today. I was born and raised in the heart of Houston, Texas, a city known for its resilience and spirit. The roots from my early years run deep here. Houston is my home, my sanctuary.
However, when I was around seven years old, my family embarked on a journey that would take us far from the familiar streets of Houston. We packed our bags and headed to Nigeria, a land rich in culture but vastly different from the world I knew. It was a place where technology had a different face, where life had a different rhythm.
For two and a half years, I called Nigeria my home, absorbing its unique flavors and traditions before my family and I returned to the United States – lured by greater educational opportunities and a brighter future. It was upon my return that I began my journey into the world of football, a passion that would shape my life in ways I never imagined.
My family is from Nigeria. My grandfather was the Major General and President in Nigeria in 1966 and my family has deep ties to the country. His life and legacy are what drove my desire to work in politics and government policy. One day I hope to return to Nigeria to help the communities and shape the culture through policy and politics.
Just like my big bro
Growing up, I was a sports enthusiast, trying my hand at nearly every game under the sun. My two older brothers were my role models, and I eagerly followed in their footsteps, embracing their passions as my own. Football was one of those passions, and with my brothers as mentors, I learned the intricacies of the game before I even set foot on the field.
Their example served as a guiding light, illuminating the path I would follow. We competed fiercely, but their experience and wisdom were invaluable, teaching me the essence of dedication and hard work. I looked up to them, emulating their discipline and commitment.
Not just a football player
Yet, football is just one facet of my life. I find solace in gaming, a hobby that captured my heart. It is an escape from the intensity of the field, a realm where I can unwind and immerse myself in virtual adventures. In college, I discovered martial arts and have been instantly fell in love with its grace and discipline.
Reading became another source of nourishment for my mind. I enjoy seeking knowledge through books about business and politics.
In the trenches
As a lineman, I take pride in my tenacity on the field. I strive to play the game cleanly, addressing past shortcomings and continually honing my skills, especially in the off-season when I focus on the run game. My tenacity is my trademark, the fire that burns within me every time I step onto the field.
My path to becoming a Division-I football player was far from normal. I wasn't highly recruited, but I persevered, fueled by my love for the game. I could have followed my brother to Tulsa, the school that gave me my first college scholarship offer. However, a few weeks later I went on my first visit to the hometown school, the school I ended up graduating from, the University of Houston. My choice to be a Cougar was guided by a sense of destiny. It felt like the right place for me, a homecoming to the city that had nurtured me.
The journey was not without its trials. I faced the challenge of being a true freshman, playing left tackle, blocking my quarterback's blind side and the pressure was nerve-wracking. But my coach's guidance and the support of my teammates carried me through. And in 2020, when a season-ending injury struck, I learned a valuable lesson: the game does not last forever, but the lessons it imparts endure. I had started five straight games over my first two years, and it felt like everything was coming to a screeching halt. Perseverance is in my blood. I had to bounce back.
The culmination, the reward
Becoming a team captain was an honor bestowed upon me by my teammates. It represents the trust and respect my teammates have in me, and I take this responsibility seriously. Leading by example is my mantra; a commitment to my team's success both on and off the field.
What's truly special about playing for the University of Houston and being a captain is that it's in my hometown. I think it's a great city and school and I'm glad I can represent it playing the sport I love.
To the people of Houston and all football enthusiasts, I extend an invitation: come support the city, and you won't regret it. We play tough football here, and with your support, we create a spectacle that embodies the heart and soul of our beloved Houston. Together, we put on a show that celebrates the spirit of our city and the passion for the sport we love.
Go Coogs! 🐾
– UHCougars.com –
Players Mentioned
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