By: centraljersey.com
Senior Kalib Barksdale is Lawrence High School’s nominee for this year’s Delaware Valley Chapter Dinner of the National Football Foundation.
Also being honored is Carson Vey for his outstanding contributions to Hopewell Valley Pop Warner football.
The dinner will be held this Sunday, 4 p.m. at the Princeton Hyatt Regency. Over $30,000 in scholarships will be presented to players from 28 high schools representing seven counties.
The top scholarship is $5,000 from Jack Stephan/Roma Bank, along with a second scholarship worth $2500 from Ron Rick Sr./Borden Perlman.
Barksdale’s leadership qualities helped Lawrence get through a rare rebuilding season and demonstrate why he should have a bright future.
"Kalib’s true passion comes with his athletics," teacher Megan Cardwell said. "He is the captain of the varsity football team, the basketball team, and the track team. He is the ‘sports’ guy. I often see him walking the halls in his varsity jacket socializing with the whole student body.
"His athletics have allowed him to be the most well rounded student I have taught. Kalib exemplifies a student athlete – he is a leader both on and off the field."
An honors student who excels with a challenging course load, Barksdale immerses himself in extracurricular activities. He spends two hours a week coaching for the New Jersey Special Olympics.
Kalib is also a valued member of the school’s Peer Leadership program and is active in DECA, the school’s business club. Additionally, he makes his presence felt in the district’s elementary schools as part of the Read Across America program.
At 6-foot-2, 265-pounds, Barksdale cuts an imposing figure but is known throughout Lawrence as one of its most approachable figures.
"Kalib is the consummate student-athlete who makes coaching a pleasure," head coach Rob Radice said. "He is well respected and liked by his coaches, teachers, and his peers. He is the type of person you love to coach and love to be associated with. Kalib makes the people around him work harder and is a true leader."
For dinner tickets and table reservations contact George Wah at 215-736-1325 or at [email protected].
For further inforrmation log onto www.delvalchapter.org or www.footballfoundation.com.

