Meet the Players- Darnell Pendleton

Darnell Pendleton #3
Position: MLB / FB
Ht, Wt 511 190
Football Experience: 4 yrs (3 year Varsity Starter)
Born: Fairfax, VA. Age: 17
Nicknames: Smokey, DJ, Runs without knees (Coach Belkin’s nickname for him)

Darnell Pendleton is a 3-year starter for the Falls Church Jaguars. As
a junior he led the team in tackles with 115 and 6 sacks. He also led the district in tackles but was over looked as an all-district selection. Darnell always seems to be around the ball and is one of fiercest hitters on the team. He is also the starting FB and is an excellent blocker.

It’s hard to believe that “Smokey” has only been playing football for 4 years. He’s one of those kids that just have a feel for the game. When you look at him you wouldn’t think he is a Linebacker, but just ask his teammates when he hits you he “brings the noise”. As a sophomore he started out on the JV team. One game Coach Parker and I was walking up to the field and we keep hearing what sounded like car crashes. When we got to the field it was Darnell making crushing tackle after crushing tackle. Needless to say that was his last JV game. In his first varsity game (game 5) he had 10 tackles and he didn’t even start that game. He finished the year with 55 tackles.

What does Darnell have to say?

Q. What have you learned from 4 years in the FCHS Football Program??

A. I’ve learned how to work hard. I’ve also learned to listen to the coaches and never to quit

Q. If you could meet one famous person (non athlete) who would it be and why?

A. I would like to meet Martin Luther King Jr. His dreams and high aspirations have made some things possible that were not available to blacks during his time.

Q. What are some of your interests outside of football?

A. I like to sleep, chill and hang out with friends and girls.

Q. What do you like the most about football?

A. CONTACT!!! I enjoy hitting people (sometimes we have to slow him down in practice or everyone will be going to see the athletic trainer)

Q. What do you think bout Hurricane Katrina?

A. It was a devastating event. It is sad to see so many people who have lost everything especially poor people. I hope the government learns from this and is much better prepared in the event of another disaster.