Rookie Receiver from Milwaukee Leads the Mustangs
April 9, 2012 - Arena Football League (AFL)
Milwaukee Mustangs News Release
MILWAUKEE (April 9, 2012) - "Humble" isn't a word frequently associated with professional athletes. But it's heard often when Mustangs' coaches and teammates talk about Jared Jenkins. And when you hear how Jenkins rode the city bus home after preseason practices at the Brookfield Indoor Soccer Complex, it's hard not to agree.
That's right, the rookie wide receiver and rising AFL star didn't want to bother teammates for a ride home after practicing on the indoor gridiron.
"I actually got a ride (to the soccer complex) and I took the bus back," said Jenkins. "I usually got dropped off at the bus stop, but every once in a while I walked. It's in my blood I guess. (My family) doesn't like to burden people. My legs were never that tired. As long as it wasn't snowing, I didn't mind too much."
That humility could have easily taken a major hit after Jenkins' first AFL game when all he managed to do was haul in 13 catches for 211 yards and a pair of touchdowns, a performance that earned him AFL Russell Offensive Player of the Week honors. So much for the indoor football learning curve.
"It's tough for a lot of players (to adjust to the AFL), but I think Jared came into a good situation," said Damian Harrell, Mustangs' wide receivers coach. "Coach (Mark) Stoute is great with developing young talent, and that's part of the reason I came back so I could be a part of that. Jared's already a great athlete, so coming into a great situation was just icing."
It doesn't hurt that Jenkins has Harrell, the best receiver in AFL history, as a mentor.
"Damian definitely helps me out. I automatically have an advantage over a lot of other receivers by having the GOAT-greatest of all time-teach me the little things that make the difference between a good receiver and a great receiver," explained Jenkins. "The adjustment is going to be tough sometimes, but overall I think it's been a smooth transition."
It's also hard to overlook the contributions of Jenkins' basketball background or his 6-foot-3 frame. The best arena football receivers know how to create good angles and maintain excellent body position, skills that can be learned on the hardwood. Jenkins was a standout hoops player for coach Jim Gosz at local powerhouse Milwaukee King. As a senior, he helped lead the Generals to a 24-2 record, and he played basketball collegiately for Stevens Point.
"Coach Gosz taught me toughness," added Jenkins. "You have to be tough hearing him yell, but he definitely makes you a better player. He makes you a better competitor. I try to use some of the things I learned in basketball-boxing people out, using my size and being aggressive-to help improve my skills as a wide receiver."
After three games, Jenkins leads a solid corps of Mustangs' receivers with six touchdown catches. It's hard to say what the future holds for the local kid playing for Milwaukee's AFL team, but it certainly looks bright.
"The sky's the limit," said Harrell. "He has so much athletic ability. When you watch him catch those (short) passes, people bounce off of him. Pretty soon, as people watch film, they're going to be afraid to tackle him."
Added Jenkins: "Any time you get an opportunity to do something that you love and get paid for it, it's worth going for. I love football. It's something I can do and enjoy every time I get a chance to go out there. Nine to five just isn't me."
Jenkins doesn't see himself in an office all day. That's a good thing for the Milwaukee Mustangs and the AFL
The 2012 Milwaukee Mustangs are thrilled to honor and represent the Arena Football League as they celebrate their Silver 25th Anniversary this season. Tickets and sponsorships on sale now! For more information, visit mkemustangs.com or call 414-224-4000. Don't forget to follow the Milwaukee Mustangs on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.
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