From Setbacks to Comebacks: How an Elon University Athlete Rediscovered His Passion for Football

At 6 a.m. in a basement gym in London, Tkai Wade worked out alone while other students slept. Just a week prior, he made the Elon University football team. Now, even in winter’s chill, he was determined to stay on track.

In high school, Wade was a multi-sport athlete, excelling in both football and track. He even became a Junior Olympic champion. However, he chose to focus on track at the University of Louisville, where he valued the academic balance it offered. Still, after two years, he felt like something was missing, especially after a tough first year marked by the pandemic.

In 2023, he made a move to Elon University. He liked the smaller classes and personal attention. Although there wasn’t a men’s track team, this opened the door for him to return to his first love: football.

Wade approached the coaching staff right away, eager for a chance. While chatting with them, he learned the team needed help filming practices. This role kept him close to the game and helped him learn the ins and outs of the team.

By arriving early on campus, Wade got to know his teammates before the season. Traveling with the team provided him with a new appreciation for the sport. “It made me want to play even more,” he shared. His mother, Connie, noted his growing understanding of the game during this time.

When tryouts came after the 2024 season, he felt the nerves but was ready to show what he could do. He returned to Texas to train. The tryout day had its challenges; he slipped during a key drill but recovered quickly and impressed the coaches.

After a successful tryout, Wade was thrilled to share the news with his mother. Soon after, he went to London for a monthlong study abroad program. Although this meant he would miss some early team activities, he jumped back into practice just three days after returning.

“It was tiring and confusing at first, but my teammates were welcoming,” he recalled. During spring, he also joined Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., adding to his already busy schedule.

Now, as a cornerback, Wade faces a new learning curve, having mostly played wide receiver in high school. He embraces the challenges ahead, ready to make an impact for his final year at Elon. His mother believes in his dedication and intensity.

Despite his commitment to football, Wade emphasizes he is more than just an athlete. “I want to be remembered as a person, student, and then athlete,” he stated. For him, football is a part of his journey, a way to grow and connect, but it doesn’t define him.

Recent studies show that student athletes often struggle with balancing sports and academics. A survey conducted by the NCAA found that nearly 60% of athletes feel pressured to prioritize sports over their studies. Wade’s story is a testament to finding that balance and pursuing passions beyond the field.

In the world of sports, where success is often measured solely by wins, Wade reminds us that it’s equally important to focus on personal growth and relationships. He is charting a path that balances his love for football while cultivating his identity as a well-rounded individual.



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