Continuing the Legacy

EMS ISD Track & Football Star Follows in Father’s Footsteps

Elijah Irvin takes the family legacy very seriously. So seriously, in fact, that he is playing the same sport, in the same position, at the same school, and for the same coach as
his father did nearly two decades ago.  

Currently a Highland Middle School eighth grader, Irvin is on the football and track teams and is looking toward his freshman season at Saginaw High School next year. Elijah’s father, Zach, played his junior and senior seasons with the Rough Riders for Coach Mike Peters after moving to Saginaw in 2008.  

“I feel excited knowing Elijah will be playing football at Saginaw under Coach Peters,” Zach Irvin said. “Coach Peters is a great coach, and any athlete who has had the privilege of playing for his team would agree.  

“This will be a great opportunity for [Elijah] to learn and grow as an athlete,” the senior Irvin continued. “I hope he enjoys the experience as much as I did. Having a supportive coach can make a huge difference, and I can’t wait to see how he develops.”  

While a legacy is important, Elijah is forging his own trail as a multi-sport athlete.  

“Elijah has an amazing future ahead of him in both football and track. As an elite runner in the 200 meters, he stands out every time the start pistol fires,” said Matthew Hayes, Highland Middle School Boys Athletic Coordinator. “But what seems to get Elijah going even more is his love of football. Because of his deep passion, he has the ability to continue the culture and legacy his father once set at Saginaw High School under Coach Peters.” 

Elijah already has experience with excellence, placing second in the nation in the 200 meters on his recent trip to the National AAU Junior Olympics in 
North Carolina. 

“Making it to Junior Olympics for a second year in a row was exciting enough,” Elijah said. “To come in second out of everyone in my 13-year-old age group in the country was still an exciting feeling. I also couldn’t let second place bother me because I still had to focus on the 4×1 relay, and our goal was to beat our personal best and hopefully get the record. We now hold the 2024 Junior Olympics National Record in the 13-14 year
age group.” 

But football ranks as high as track in Elijah’s heart and mind.  

“I grew up going to my uncle’s football games, so my passion started there,” he said. “It was a brotherhood, and the guys would all play ball with me when I would come around, so that was cool for me. I found out later when I was older that my dad played for Saginaw and my mom cheered for them. That inspired me even more knowing I could be on that same field one day.” 

Zach Irvin looks toward that moment with pride, especially if Elijah plays the same position he once did. Mr. Irvin played running back for both his years as an SHS Rough  Rider, and Elijah has played as a running  back since he was 7 years old. However, Highland has been training him as a quarterback –
a position he also enjoys. 

“He just loves the game and is ready to  give his all, no matter what position he plays,” Zach Irvin said.  

As he soaks up his last year at middle  school, Elijah knows his freshman season  isn’t far away, and he is ready.  

“I feel special, especially how Coach Peters has talked so highly about my dad and  my uncle,” he said. “I feel like this will be a great opportunity to play for him for the  next four years.”   

Highland and Saginaw fans can watch  Elijah and all his teammates at upcoming meets and competitions. Check the athletic schedules for details.