At Shadow Ridge High School, junior football player Xavion Cross is proving that heart and hard work can go a long way. As a member of the varsity team, Cross isn’t the loudest or biggest guy on the field, but he plays with a level of intensity and focus that demands attention. Whether it’s in practice or under Friday night lights, his passion for the sport speaks louder than words.
Cross grew up surrounded by the game, watching from the sidelines as his dad and older brother played. Those early experiences sparked a connection to football that quickly turned into something more serious.
“I started playing when I was 8,” he said. “I was never the biggest, strongest, or fastest kid on the field, but I never let that stop me. I’ve always played with heart, and that’s helped me get where I am today.”
Now in his third year at Shadow Ridge, Cross has developed into a dependable player who teammates look to for steady effort and quiet leadership. His growth hasn’t come without challenges, and he admits that some of the most important lessons came during moments when things didn’t go his way.
“I wasn’t playing well, and I let the other team get into my head,” he explained, recalling a tough game against Faith Lutheran during his sophomore year. “After an altercation, my coaches and teammates helped me calm down and refocus. I realized I needed to trust my team more. Once I did, I finished the game strong and made some big plays.”
Off the field, Cross has to juggle the same responsibilities as any student-athlete—school, practice, and personal time. It’s a routine that demands discipline and time management, and he admits it can be tough.
“I try to get all my schoolwork done during the day,” he said, “but sometimes I have to stay up late to finish everything. I also do my best to spend time with my family and friends when I can.”
Even when the pressure builds, Cross says the support of his coaches and teammates helps him stay focused. Their encouragement has helped him develop the confidence to push through adversity.
“They always lift my spirit when I’m feeling down,” he said. “I put my trust in them and try to block out distractions by focusing on one play at a time.”
Looking ahead, Cross hopes to continue playing football at the next level but says he’s preparing for all possibilities.
“If football doesn’t work out, I still want to go to college and study business,” he said.
No matter what comes next, he remains proud of where he’s come from. The experiences and values he’s gained at Shadow Ridge have shaped not only his skills on the field but also the person he is becoming off it.
“It’s an honor to represent Shadow Ridge,” Cross states. “The friendships and memories I’ve made here will stick with me forever.”
His teammate, Brayden Brock, is grateful to be playing with Cross as he is a junior as well. He has taught him valuable things on and off the playing field.
“The best thing about playing with cross is his attitude. Also whenever I am around him the whole team communicates and just plays better overall. He has taught me to be a better teammate and that when someone tries to truck you, go very low,” mentions Brock.
