The St. James Academy’s Star Safety: Eltonio Hicks

Eltonio Hicks is a 3 Star recruit who plays Safety at The St. James Academy. Hicks is ranked among one of the top recruits in the nation and is ranked among one of the top Safeties in the nation as well. In addition, Hicks is listed as a top 30 recruit in the state of Virginia and is listed as the #4 Safety in the state of Virginia. He is committed to play at UConn.

Who are some role models in your life?
Some role models in my life are my parents.

What artists do you listen to pregame to get you hyped up?
I listen to Lil Durk, Lil Baby, and others.

What are the strengths of your game?
The strengths of my game are my football IQ, versatility, physicality, range, athleticism, and good ball skills.

Who is the best player you have ever played with or played against in your career?
I’ve played against a lot of great talent, but I would say the best players are my teammates. Competing against them every day pushes me to keep getting better.

What is some advice you would give to an aspiring D1 athlete?
Treat your sport like a job by mastering the fundamentals, being coachable, studying the game, and handling your business on and off the field. Stay consistent, compete every rep, be patient with the results, and stay obsessed with getting better every day.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be?
If I could travel anywhere, it would be Turks and Caicos.

How old were you when you fell in love with the game?
I was 5 years old when I fell in love with the game.

If you could meet one sports hero, who would it be?
If I could meet one sports hero, it would be LeBron James.

What is your favorite sports moment as a fan?
My favorite sports moment as a fan would be the Philadelphia Eagles winning the Super Bowl last year because I’m an Eagles fan.