Video: Blind Alabama football player chasing his dream
See Jay Spencer excel on the gridiron despite being legally blind.Jay Spencer lost his sight to a rare eye disease when he was 3. But that hasn't stopped him from playing the game he loves.
The 16-year-old junior has started at center for the
St. John Paul II (Huntsville, Ala.) football team the past two seasons, and he's truly tough as nails.
"Jay also plays defensive tackle sometimes, and he's got talent," head coach David Lloyd Jr. said. "He is extremely explosive off the ball and gets a tackle every now and then. He is one of the toughest kids on the team, and he never complains. His work ethic is really something to admire."
He even blocked an extra point attempt last season. The 160-pound Spencer is also a skilled wrestler.
"Jay made it to state last year," said. ''He hurt his shoulder before the state competition. But he figures to be a top 10 wrestler in the state this year, regardless of class."
It's incredible to fathom what Spencer has accomplished athletically for someone who can't legally see and uses Braille to read. He will also look to lift the Falcons to their first win since 2013.
"If you ever want to do something, find a way and do it," Spencer said.
