Playing football at Hinds Community College was a decision that may have saved the life of Forest Hill High School graduate J’Vontez Blackmon, 20.
During a routine preseason physical a doctor sent Blackmon to the hospital for further examination where it was confirmed he had a hole in his enlarged heart. Doctors recommended surgery and Blackmon, one of the top Eagles in 2010, returned to play for his sophomore season.
“There were times during rehab when I thought I wouldn’t even be able to go to school any more, much less play football,” Blackmon said. “I’m lucky to be alive and I’m ready to see if football is in my future.”
Blackmon, a computer science major, started every game as a safety in 2011 and collected 56 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, five pass breakups and three interceptions.
Blackmon signed with the University of Tennessee-Martin.