Ten-year-old football player, Leeland Pope, will soon be traveling the country showcasing his skills at various national youth combines in hopes of getting ranked nationally. Leeland, son of Dalton and Laila Pope, plays both inside linebacker and quarterback, but throwing the ball is his specialty. Last season, he led the league in passing yards, touchdown passes, and completion total.
Leeland’s success can be credited to his deep love for the game and determination to improve. According to his father, Dalton, Leeland stays busy in the offseason, lifting weights and working on his throwing mechanics. His humility and leadership skills have also been noted and recognized. Recently, his competitiveness and accomplishments have earned him invitations to show others what he can do.
This February, Leeland will be attending the YAA Combine in Birmingham, Alabama. Players who earn rankings at this event will attend the All-American Youth Combine in Houston, Texas.
Leeland is one of 300 youth football players who will be in Atlanta for the BluChps National Combine in April, an event that includes former players and coaches from the collegiate and NFL ranks.
Lastly, Leeland will be attending the All-American Flag Combine in Bradenton, Florida where he will be placed on a team that will compete in a flag football tournament with the intent to showcase youth talent.
Would you like to see the young quarterback sling it? You can view his highlights on his Instagram page: @hitstick-lee
Grant Turner is the editor of the Barnesville Buzz and an educator, coach, and writer based in Barnesville, Georgia. He shares stories that bridge community, faith, and personal growth. In addition to teaching and coaching, Grant is Director of Musical Worship and a Sunday School teacher at New Hope Baptist Church in Zebulon, Georgia. He lives in Barnesville with his wife, Haley.
