Interview with Southwood Louisiana Cornerback Keautae Atkins

Written by Charlie Beuttel

Southwood had a disappointing season when they finished 2-8 in 2014. The good news for Cowboys fans is that Southwood is bringing back 16 starters from last year. Both sides of the ball will be more experienced and should improve from last year.

The strength of Southwood’s team on paper should be the defense with nine starters returning. One strength of the Cowboys defense is their secondary especially their cornerbacks especially with star senior cornerback Keautae Atkins on the field.

Atkins transferred to Southwood after spending his first two years of high school at Captain Shreve. The senior immediately learned about his new team and excelled in his junior season. In 2014, the 5’10”, 160 pound, cornerback had 34 tackles, three interceptions, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery which he returned for a touchdown.

The Class of 2016 recruit attended a Louisiana Tech and Northwestern State camp this summer and has drawn interest from these two in-state schools.

In an exclusive Recruiting News Guru interview, I sat down with Keautae to talk about his first year at Southwood, his recruiting process, and the preparation for his senior season.

Interview
Keautae, what are your thoughts on the 2014 season?

“We went 2-1 and after that we couldn’t finish in the second half and we lost our cool.”

What are your thoughts on your individual performance in 2014?

“I think I could have done better. I was still in the learning process after transferring schools and I will perform better this year.”

When did you transfer schools and what is like for you to transfer?

“It happened after my sophomore year and it was definitely a different environment.”

What are your strengths on the field?

“I’m a very good cover guy. I’m never beat deep down the field. I’m also very versatile.”

What was your most memorable moment from last year?

“I had a big hit against Minden. I hit the tight end and caused him to fumble.”

Have you attended any camps this summer?

“Louisiana Tech and Northwestern State?

Have you received any interest from any schools?

“Just Louisiana Tech and Northwestern State.”

Have you made any unofficial visits?

“I visited Northwestern State and I plan on visiting North Texas.”

How does Southwood look going into the season?

“We are looking good. We are working on being more physical.”

Do you have any goals for your senior season?

“Personally I want to make All-State and I want to win two or three district games and make the playoffs.”

What game on your team’s schedule are you most looking forward to playing?

“Evangel, they are the newcomer to 5A. It’s their homecoming night and we are going to spoil it.”

Are you guaranteeing a victory?

“Yes I am.”

Who has had the biggest impact on your football career?

“My cousin, Dominique Hill, he plays cornerback at McNeese State and he helps prepare me for the season and motivates me to work harder.”

What do you like most about playing football?

“It’s a competitive environment. No other sport compares to football for me. You learn how to be a leader.”

What motivates you to give 100 percent effort out there on the football field?

“My family is athletic and I want keep the family tradition going.”

Photo credit: Keautae Atkins; Keautae Atkins on the practice field.