Student Spotlight: Ronye Watson
Chattanooga, TN-- Ronye Watson, a standout senior at Central High School, is making waves both on and off the football field. At 17 years old, Watson has crafted an impressive athletic resume while maintaining a strong focus on academics and family. As his final high school season unfolds, he is determined to leave a lasting impact.
On the field, Watson’s dedication is evident. Playing football since the age of 4, he excels at every position he is given, earning a spot on this year’s Chattanooga Times Free Press Dynamite Dozen list. Watson’s goal for the season is to surpass his previous stats and continue improving. “I'm at 25 touchdowns until I hit 100. I want to pass that,” he says. Over the years, Watson has become a role model and positive influence on his team. After a tough loss, he focuses on staying upbeat. “I go into that next week knowing I have to stay in high spirits. Staying positive keeps the team positive,” he explains. For Watson, football is not just a sport, but a getaway. He cherishes many memories from his athletic career, with one standing out: winning a game as a freshman alongside his brother, who was a senior at the time. “We cried after. We were both proud,” Watson recalls. Family is a significant motivator for Watson. He draws much of his inspiration from his late cousin and aunt. “Ever since I was younger they told me they wanted to see me do big things in the future. I do it for them.” He honors their memory by writing their initials on his tape or cleats before every game.
Off the field, Watson is just as dedicated. He enjoys history, particularly his class with Mr. Shawn Seals, which he finds engaging and full of interesting topics. While football is his passion, Watson understands the importance of education and offers advice to other student-athletes: “There will be a lot of pressure. There can be a lot of weight on your shoulders. But you just have to work out that schedule. Be a student first and an athlete second.” Planning to major in business and supply chain management, Watson also hopes to continue playing football in college. With offers from schools like Central Michigan and Eastern Kentucky University, and interest from others, including Clemson, his future is promising.
As Watson prepares for the next chapter of his journey, he remains focused on balancing his academic and athletic goals. With his faith and his family as his guiding forces, there is no doubt that Ronye Watson is on track to achieve the big things his loved ones always envisioned for him.