Jacob Julien is a senior football player for Ascension Catholic. Beginning his fourth year as a starter in the secondary and coming off a trip to the state championship game in December. I had a chance to talk to “J5” as they call him, and he reflected on last year and what lies ahead.
Talk about last season, your accomplishments and the team.
Jacob Julien: I was honored as a first team all-district defensive back as well as the LSWA team as an honorable mention selection. I made the LFCA first team defensive back for 1A. I was selected all metro as well. Our team was fortunate enough to make the state championship game; we fell short but that has motivated us to work even harder since January.
What are your measurables, positions and GPA?
I am 5′9, 170 pounds and have a 3.0 GPA. I play safety and have played cornerback my first two years. I look to step up on offense as a dual threat weapon and help on special teams, anything the coaches need me to do.”
What are your likes outside of football and sports?
I enjoy fishing and playing my PS5 game. Fishing allows me to enjoy peace and quiet time. I like playing my game after practice and workouts.
What does the offseason training look like?
I have put in the work this offseason, we started as soon as we returned from the Christmas holidays in January. The weight room is important to our coaches and we take it seriously. I want to keep improving individually, which will help our team accomplish our team goals, that is always to win a state championship.
Talk about the confidence you have in this team and your teammates.
I am very confident in our team because we all work together for the same goal, no selfish players. Our defense continues to get better, second year in this system. The returning starters and veterans continue to get better and I am seeing some freshmen start to step up. I have complete faith in our quarterback, running backs, receivers, tight ends and offensive line. They know the system that coach Taylor James and the staff have installed. Our coaches hold us accountable every day whether it be on the field or in the classroom. We are held accountable for everything, how we represent ourselves, our family and Ascension Catholic.
Talk about playing in big games, y’all are 51-10 over the last five years.
We have played in big games, gone deep in the playoffs and improved our playoff run one game further in the last three seasons. We left one on the table losing to a very good team in December. There is a level of commitment that comes with this program, that and our big game experience has motivated this team even more.
What are the areas that you have focused on improving?
Focusing on my technique and holding myself and my teammates accountable. I am working on improving my speed and making sure my body is in great shape to help my team.
What does leadership look like to you?
Being a leader looks like holding my teammates accountable when they are not giving their best. I feel like I know what my teammates are capable of. The seniors have a responsibility to lead though encouraging and modeling what looks good. This senior group has played a lot of football together. We played for championships in middle school together.
What has it meant to wear the purple and gold at Ascension Catholic?
Playing for the Bulldogs has meant so much to me. This school has helped me shape my character and made me the person I am today. I am excited for my senior year, ready to do whatever it takes to represent Ascension Catholic in a positive way. Our team motto is “TPW” which means tough people win.
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan to continue my education, play football for a good program and major in kinesiology.
Last one for you, take this opportunity to thank anyone you like.
I want to thank God for getting me where I am today. I want to thank my stepdad for always being one step ahead and guiding me. Our former defensive coordinator, coach Paine, taught me techniques like my back pedal and pushed me. I want to thank coach James for pushing and challenging me daily. He has reached out to college programs on my behalf, creating opportunities for my future. Thanks to our coaching staff for giving their time to help us become great players and great people. My grandparents have always supported me along with my dad, they attend all my games and cheer us on. Thanks to coach Dio Bernard for the early morning training sessions. My little brothers look up to me and that makes me proud to be a positive role model. My sister supports me and pushes me every day. Last, but not least, my mom. She is always there for me; she keeps me grounded and is my biggest supporter. Thanks to my teammates, teachers, administers and staff at Ascension Catholic for being dedicated to the students.