Jabree Coleman, a redshirt freshman running back for the South Carolina Gamecocks, is making an impact beyond the football field. Coleman, who transferred from Penn State, participated in two service trips to Ghana, West Africa, during his high school years.
During these trips, Coleman and his high school group, which focused on an African-centered STEM program, delivered 3D printer water filters and other water filtration systems to a village that lacked clean drinking water. The villagers were consuming water directly from a pond or swamp area, and the provided systems helped purify their water supply. The group also distributed food at a local school.
Coleman expressed a strong desire to help others, stating his intention to give back to less fortunate communities once he earns money. He noted that not everyone is born with the same opportunities, emphasizing the responsibility of those with more to assist those in need. He described the trips as greatly impactful, fostering a deeper sense of gratitude for what he has. He observed that despite their limited resources, the people he met in Africa were consistently happy with what they possessed, and they showed immense joy when receiving the water filters, an item often taken for granted elsewhere.
Coleman followed running backs coach Stan Drayton to South Carolina, who joined the Gamecocks from Penn State in December. Coleman found the decision to transfer easier due to Drayton reaching out and the immediate sense of belonging he felt upon visiting the campus. He identifies his strengths as size, vision, and athleticism, while acknowledging the need to improve the mental aspect of his game. He described the running back room as a competitive yet supportive environment, with players like Matt Fuller, Christian Clark, Isiah Augustave, and Jawarren Howell, all working to improve together.
Looking ahead to the season, Coleman aims for the team to win an SEC Championship and a national championship. Personally, he hopes to demonstrate his capabilities as a player and establish his name.
