[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.7.6″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_fullwidth_image src=”https://nationalscoutingcombine.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/FeaturedAthleteInterview.jpg” title_text=”FeaturedAthleteInterview” _builder_version=”4.7.6″ _module_preset=”default”][/et_pb_fullwidth_image][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”3.22″][et_pb_row use_custom_gutter=”on” admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.7.6″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” width=”95%” max_width=”1920px”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.8.1″ hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″]
Tracey Kozak Jr | Midland University | TE/DE
Twitter: tracey_kozak | Instagram: kozak1001
Q: Tell us about your college (or pro) career and what the recruiting/scouting process was like. Why did you choose Midland?
A: College Career was decent. I met a lot of lifelong friends. In terms of football though I felt I was severely underrecruited. My pro career though was a lot more satisfying. First game I played I went both ways and had two touchdown receptions and six sacks.
Q: What would you consider to be your biggest accomplishment in your sports career so far?
A: Biggest accomplishment would have to be getting two combine invites after the pandemic.
Q: What do you consider to be one of the more important things you learned from the coaching staff while playing at Midland?
A: I learned that just because one coach doesn’t believe in you doesn’t mean you have to listen. Been doubted my whole life, but now my game is undeniable.
Q: How was your career impacted due to the 2020 pandemic and what have you learned from the adversity?
A: Honestly it was affected in a good way, because it took my grind to new heights. When you can’t really go anywhere you feel like a kid again… Just a ball and a dream.
Changing generations lives for years to come. I grew up in poverty and wouldn’t change it for anything because that made me. I don’t want future generations to have to deal with that.
~ Tracey Kozak Jr
Q: What was your major and what are your plans if football doesn’t work out?
A: Strength and conditioning, and I want to open my own gym somewhere.
Q: What would your current/past teammates say about you and your qualities?
A: I play with a lot of emotion, Never had to worry if I would bring it on gameday, and the hardest worker in the room.
Q: What has been one of the most memorable plays of your career at any level?
A: My first pro game taking a 20 yard screen to the end zone to end the half.
Q: What has been your biggest challenge and how do you manage it?
A: Taking the noise and turning it into motivation. Once I did that the doors started to open up.
Q: If you could compare yourself to a pro athlete, who would that be and why?
A: Rob Gronkowski we have the same measurements and play the game the same way.
Q: What is your biggest strength that you bring to a professional team and why should pro scouts consider you?
A: My size, soft hands, and inner dog .
Q: Are you involved in mentoring, a charity or do you “give back” or ”pay it forward” in your community?
A: I help take care of my grandma, and grandpa.
Q: How are you preparing for the 2021 National Scouting Combine and what are your goals?
A: Grind every single day. That includes rest days where I am watching football and taking notes.
Q: What would be your ultimate achievement?
A: Changing generations lives for years to come. I grew up in poverty and wouldn’t change it for anything because that made me. I don’t want future generations to have to deal with that.
Q: What do you enjoy doing when not playing football?
A: Video games, and good food
Q: If you could make a positive impact on all of society what would it be and why?
A: End world hunger because no one should have to worry about where their next meal is coming from.
Q: Who is or has been the most influential person in your life?
A: Never have met him but Kobe “Bean” Bryant. Shows what hard work mixed with talent can do for you.
Q: What is something unique about you that people would find interesting?
A: I have not taken a drink of pop in five years
Q: What is your dream job?
A: Playing in the NFL