Being a student-athlete at Lakeland requires more than successfully navigating classes and being a good teammate. It involves something greater, according to senior running back Monroe Hobbs. It requires optimism and leadership.  

“Being a student athlete at Lakeland means everything to me,” Hobbs exclaimed. “It reflects that you can play at the next level and be an academic, too. I try my best to smile, make good grades, and be a positive role model for people on campus and in the community.” 

Throughout his athletic career, Hobbs synergized his sense of purpose with his passion for the game to excel as both a student and athlete. His optimistic attitude comes from being surrounded by people who inspire him and share his zeal for collegiate athletics.  

“Having caring, loving people around me makes the good and the bad a little more palatable,” he said. “If you have negative people around you, then that is what becomes possible. I want to be around people who are good for me so that I can grow.” 

Hobbs shared how this mindset has enabled him to navigate difficult times and enjoy success. From fending off homesickness to weathering the tempest of adversity on the field, Hobbs seizes every misfortune and harnesses it as energy. He has already been rewarded with honors such as Special Teams MVP during his freshman year and has been integral in leading events like the Blue and Gold Awards. But he doesn’t take the limelight. 

“Who influenced me are those around here,” he responded. “Family, football and people around here shaped me into the person I am today. Wouldn’t be me without them all.” 

Hobbs is the teammate who keeps the team’s spirit up even on tough days. He is a bundle of energy whenever he steps into the locker room or onto the field. “Whatever our dynamic is, that is our chemistry,” Hobbs said. “We have had ups and downs, but each week we grind a little bit harder and get better. That is because we believe in each other.” 

Running back coach, Gabriel Maynes has felt that kind of energy from day one. “Monroe is the real deal and easy to relate to,” Maynes said. “He is optimistic and a team player. What impresses me is that he will not hesitate to speak up and command the room when it is appropriate.” 

Even today, while he struggles to regain health, Hobbs remains a leader by example. “He still has something important to say on the team,” Maynes said. “He wants everyone to succeed.” 

Maynes also told a hilarious moment illustrating Hobbs’ attitude. “He dressed up in Robby Michael’s high school jersey for Halloween. It was two sizes too small, but he didn’t care. He enjoys making people laugh.” 

That’s the type of caring nature that extends far beyond the football field. Hobbs’ fraternity brother, Julian Viera, says Hobbs turned his life around. “He brings people out of their shell,” Viera said. “He makes Lakeland feel like home. He is a leader even though he’s not so-called. He is a big brother to me.” 

Hobbs hopes the next generation of Muskies will understand the importance of associating with the right people. “Be careful who you hang with,” he counseled. “Negative people attract negative stuff. Positive people attract positive stuff.” 

To everyone around him, Hobbs is more than just a player. He is a coach, a leader and a beacon of hope for anyone who ever needed it. Whether he’s getting teammates pumped up during pre-game or cheering up someone in the cafeteria, his effect is recognizable.