The way I figure it, anyone who pitches their little league baseball team into a championship and wins, plus wins four super bowls in the football league, has some pretty sweet memories he can reflect on later in life. But for Herschel Henderson that was just the start. He always played to win and took losing very seriously. My understanding is that his two older brothers learned the hard way not to tease Herschel after a loss.
“I remember having to really work with him to understand that losing was a part of the game as long as he learned and played his best.” said Herschel’s dad Hosea.
You see, he has 2 older brothers, Trey and Eric, who were very successful in high school playing basketball for the legendary High School coach Bill Krueger. Both his brothers brought home state medals in basketball. Those medals made Herschel determined to get his own medal from state…and he did. Herschel’s athletic ability allowed him to medal in the High jump at his state track and field competition. That is no small feat considering the state was Texas.
Herschel also started to excel at football, was ranked as one of the top 10 db’s in Texas and it was time for the recruiting process. During this process he was surrounded with family support and a solid High School coach in Troy Adudell, who was just recognized as Texas coach of the year.
His parents preference was for him to stay close in Texas so they could easily make all his games but they let Herschel know that the decision was his and that they would support him wherever he decides to go. Many coaches came through the Henderson door; however, it was only Coach Walker and NU assistant coach Feggins who spoke strongly about academics. In fact, Walker never really spoke about football but stayed on the themes of Character and academics. Hosea said, “Walker reviewed some video of Herschel’s football skills but said he was more concerned about learning more about Herschel’s character and what Herschel wanted out of life.”
Herschel ended up choosing NU. And the NU football program has embraced him and surrounded him with support. Hosea said, “Coach Walker’s Football program is a class program and we have enjoyed all the parents and the players. The character of the people associated with the Northwestern Football program is absolutely outstanding and I can say this since I am entering our 5th year of association. I must also say that Coach Jerry Brown has been like a father to Herschel since he has been at Northwestern… he has earned our trust and unwavering respect for his concerns and developments of not just our son but all the players.”
As a true freshman, Herschel saw game action in 4 games, even earned a Defensive Championship game performance. As a sophomore he started 9 games and had a 6 solo tackle effort against OSU. The future looked bright and NU had a db who had unlimited potential.
Unfortunately, Herschel had a setback from injury and would spend the entire year on the sidelines.
However, last year, he was back in action. His ability gave him the opportunity to play Corner or Safety. When Backes went down against PSU, Herschel came in and got 7 tackles, including one TFL. When Heinz went down, Herschel came in and registered an eye popping 12 tackles against Illinois. In fact he led all non-regulars with 49 tackles.
This year, I look for Herschel to be entrenched in a starting CB position and have a very successful year. His size will also offer the Cats some solid CB play deep. Certainly his talent will present him with an opportunity in the NFL.
To read the rest of the story and Herschel's interview click here