Bryson planning on finishing senior football season with a bang
St. Andrew’s Episcopal School senior tailback PJ Bryson said despite giving 100% effort for every season of football, he wants to push even harder for his last season, for himself, his fellow seniors and the rest of his team.
Bryson began playing as an outside linebacker and running back for St. Andrew’s back in middle school and took over as tailback in high school.
“Playing at St. Andrew’s has increased my liking for football because during my time here, my team has been small and that has helped me build strong relationships with a whole lot of guys on the team,” Bryson said. “You have to go to war on the field and play hard, so if you don’t build those strong relationships, you don’t play as well.”
Bryson said his favorite part of playing for the Saints is hanging out with his teammates and practicing with them.
“I love the practices and the intensity that everyone brings to the field. It is never a boring day,” Bryson said
Bryson said he would like to attend Mississippi State University or Louisiana State University for college. He does not plan on playing college football and wants to major in business at whatever college he attends.
Outside of football, Bryson said he enjoys hanging out with friends and driving around with them exploring nature, camping and going to sporting events. On the side, he does lawn work for various people throughout the Ridgeland and Madison areas in the summer or whenever he is available.
His favorites:
• Hobby: Playing chess
• Food: Tacos
• Vacation spot: Colorado (backpacking and skiing)
• Movie: “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off”
• Video game: Call of Duty
“I keep remembering this is my last year playing football, so I’m giving it all I’ve got,” Bryson said.
St. Andrew’s Head Football Coach Johnny Nichols said Bryson is reliable and never comes off the field.
“PJ has been a part of our varsity program since ninth grade,” Nichols said. “He’s a hard-working young man and is dedicated to off-season workouts. He’s a great leader for our team, and we’re happy to have him.”
Nichols said the effort Bryson gives on every play is unbelievable.
“He is not the biggest player out there, but he makes up for it with his toughness,” Nichols said. “During this season, PJ has 45 carries for 314 yards, eight catches for 88 yards and two touchdowns. He also has a total of 71 tackles; 28 solos and 43 assists.”
Nichols said the Saints are 3-4 this season but are doing a little better than last year. He said the team is very close to victory in most games, and the effort his players give is unbelievable.
“PJ and the rest of the team keep the games close until the very end, and I’m looking forward to the second half of this season,” Nichols said. “PJ is a great young man, great with his teammates, leads by example, and gives everything he has on every play. Come out and see him. He’s a great player.”