This article was written by Alex Becker, class of 2019.
While most people think “serving your country” means going to war, senior Calvin Hart Jr. proved he could serve his country on the gridiron, rather than the battlefield. Hart, a true outside linebacker who can also play strong safety, was selected as one of the top 50 high school football players in the nation to play on the USA U-19 National Team against Team Canada at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, TX Friday, Jan. 19.
Hart was offered his spot on the roster over a month before the game but decided only two weeks beforehand. “I wanted to play. The only thing I was worried about was maybe getting injured before college, but I didn’t let that stop me,” Hart said.
Hart helped Team USA blow out its northern neighbor 47-7 in the International Bowl IX. Hart was impressive on defense for the red, white and blue finishing the day with three tackles and a sack.
Although skeptical about playing at first, Hart feels he made the right decision. “Playing in that game was a great experience, [and I] got a chance to meet a lot of elite athletes across the country chasing the same dream. I’m extremely blessed and happy I was able to play in that game,” he said.
Hart finished his Patriot career with three state title rings, 191 tackles, 10 sacks, and two forced fumbles, and will continue to pursue his football dream next fall at North Carolina State.
