By Derrick Smith 

Team chemistry is a big part of any team’s success. If members of the team are at odds or do not get along well, it can cause problems once they step on the field or court. Dezmond Williams says that he gets along well with his teammates but there are a couple that he enjoys going up against in practice the most. 

“I actually have two people I battle with the most in practice,” he said. “The first is my brother, Tajon because I love to show him why I’m the better brother. The second is my good friend Treg because I’ve always thought of him as another brother, and just like Tajon, I have to prove who’s better.” 

A senior at Perry High School, Williams is a multi-sport athlete. He plays quarterback, cornerback, and kicker for the football team, while on the hardwood he is a guard. He also plays outfield, first base, and pitcher as a member of the baseball team. He says that playing three sports takes a lot of work but he knows the work helps him become successful. 

“It has taken a lot of development to be successful in my sports, not only physically but mentally,” he said. “I’ve had to gradually move to a leadership role over the years and my senior year will be its peak. It’s helpful to know my teammates respect me as a person so that makes my job a little bit easier.” 

Throughout his career, Dezmond has made some big plays, but he says that there is one that stands out as his favorite. 

“I think the highlight of my career was a touchdown I scored against Chandler in the playoffs,” he said. “Although it didn’t change the outcome of the game, it gave us the confidence we needed to maybe do something that hasn’t been done in a while, I also think it might’ve given people the thought that possibly this kid can be something special.” 

While he has put in a lot of work to get where he is, Williams knows that he could not have done it by himself. 

“My parents have played a big part in my life,” he said. “The way they have pushed me to be the best yet let me choose my own path is amazing to me, and I can’t thank them enough for it.”