AJ McBean, a dynamic running back, has transferred from Mira Costa to Gardena Serra High School, where he is gearing up for a significant senior season. The 5-foot-11, 210-pound athlete has already made headlines by committing to Stanford University in June, showcasing his potential on and off the field.
McBean has adopted a rigorous training regimen, often working out alone and focusing on self-improvement. He believes that true progress occurs when no one is watching, a mindset that has propelled him to enhance his skills. "I’ve been working pretty much myself," he stated. "I’m self-made. I’ve been training on my own just grinding ... getting bigger, faster, stronger. I’ve seen the progress." His dedication is evident in his impressive sprinting times, having clocked a personal best of 10.55 seconds in the 100 meters, a significant improvement from his freshman year when he recorded an 11.7 seconds time.
The transition to Gardena Serra has provided McBean with new opportunities to showcase his talent. His speed on the track has attracted attention from college recruiters, particularly after his recent performances. "I got a lot of texts and a lot of calls," he remarked after his 10.61-second run. This attention is crucial for a player looking to make a mark in high school football and beyond.
Despite facing ankle injuries over the past two seasons, McBean has demonstrated his ability to perform when healthy. As he enters his senior year, he aims to elevate his game further, leveraging his size and speed to become a versatile player capable of running, blocking, and catching passes. He embodies a fearless attitude on the field, stating, "My mindset going into any game is run through their face. If they’re coming at me, I have no remorse going through them." This aggressive mentality is complemented by his track speed, allowing him to evade defenders when necessary.
Living in Hermosa Beach, McBean enjoys an active lifestyle that includes surfing, although he has shifted to longboarding due to his size. He spends considerable time in the gym, where he boasts impressive strength, including squats over 500 pounds and dumbbell lifts of 110 pounds. The presence of professional athletes in his community serves as motivation for McBean, who aspires to reach their level of excellence. "I see all the professionals working on their craft and can take that from them," he noted.
As the high school football season approaches, McBean's focus is entirely on football. His family is relocating to ensure he is eligible to play immediately, which adds to the anticipation surrounding his performance this fall. With his offseason training and commitment to improvement, the number of yards he gains and touchdowns he scores remains to be seen, but his confidence is unwavering. "I believe in myself and trust myself," he concluded.
As the season unfolds, McBean will be one of the running backs to watch, alongside other talented players in the league. His journey from Mira Costa to Gardena Serra is not just about a change of scenery; it represents a pivotal moment in his athletic career as he prepares to leave a lasting impact on high school football.
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