James Sapp Jr. Shines as Yorkville’s Football Standout

James Sapp Jr., a senior tackle for Yorkville, is catching up in the world of football. Although he started playing later than most, he’s making significant contributions to the team. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 240 pounds, Sapp is a versatile and formidable force on the defensive line.

“I can play any position on the line, but my size suits the tackle,” Sapp remarked. He has experience as a defensive end and enjoys the one-on-one action there. Sapp and his family moved from Chicago when he was three, and he started football in eighth grade due to his family’s unfamiliarity with the youth tackle program.

Sapp is an all-round athlete, participating in basketball and track, where he throws the shot put and discus. He qualified for the discus at the state level last spring. However, football remains his primary focus, followed by track and then basketball.

Last Friday, Sapp showed his talents in a 44-21 defeat to Oswego, recording his highest season performance with 13 tackles, including four for a loss and a sack. He has accumulated 35 tackles for Yorkville, which had a 21-20 lead briefly during the third quarter before turnovers led to their downfall.

“He’s extremely athletic for his size,” Yorkville coach Dan McGuire praised. “James is a tough block.”

Sapp’s impressive 4.8-second time in the 40-yard dash spurred McGuire to expand Sapp’s role by adding tight end duties. “His blocking boosts our run game,” McGuire added. “He’s committed and willing, which is remarkable.”

Though Sapp hasn’t caught a pass yet, McGuire acknowledges his potential. “We had one play for him Friday; he was open, but there wasn’t enough time,” said McGuire. “He’s a great kid who doesn’t need prompting, which is all the more commendable.”

Sapp remains optimistic about producing results in offense: “I’m gonna get there,” he asserted. “I’ve been open a few times. Coach is optimistic about my size and speed.” Sapp finished the previous season with 48 tackles and is poised to surpass that, contingent on Yorkville’s playoff performance.

Assistant coach Todd Groth believes Sapp’s involvement in three sports bolsters his growth. “He’s a hard worker and focuses on detail,” Groth noted. “Some teams devise strategies around him, yet his technique and strength continue to evolve.”

Enhancing his skills through weight training, Sapp achieved a personal best with a 550-pound deadlift. “In high school, I committed to weightlifting,” he explained. “It complements what I do on the field.”

Sapp’s dedication has led to offers from two NCAA Division II and two Division III colleges. Academically adept with a 4.33 GPA, he aims to excel at the collegiate level. “Reaching college excites me,” he said. “My goal is to earn a scholarship and pursue the NFL. If not, my backup plan is construction management.”