Athlete of the Week: Josiah Booker

Josiah Booker is a rising senior wide receiver at Booker High. Booker has received 12 offers from schools across the country, including Duke University, Purdue University and Marshall University. Booker had 1,152 all-purpose yards in 2022, averaging 16.5 yards per reception and hauling in nine touchdowns. 

When did you start playing football?

I started when I was 5. My mom (Latressa Preston) put me in tackle football. I was interested in football before then, though. I wanted to try it and I liked it right away. 

What is the appeal to you?

I just like being around my peers on the field. 

What is your best skill?

It's my speed and my footwork. That's always been an ability of mine, to go fast, and it helps as a receiver. I only play receiver right now, but don't think I couldn't play DB (defensive back) also. (Laughs.) 

What have you been working to improve?

I have been working on my catching and also, I'm just trying to get bigger and stronger and put on more weight. (247Sports lists Booker, a three-star player, as 5-foot-9 and 150 pounds.) 

What is your favorite memory?

I was playing my U10 season with the Sarasota Seminoles. We had a playoff game and it came down to the last play of the game. I scored the game-winning touchdown. 

What has been the best part of the recruiting process so far?

Marshall was my first offer, and that was cool. That was like, "OK, I'm part of the game." But when Duke offered, that changed my mindset. I said to myself, "I can do this for real."

What are you looking for in a school?

I'd like to go to a place where I have a chance to play toward the end of my freshman year, or at least going into my sophomore year. I also want to go somewhere that loves me for me and shows me they care. 

What are your goals for the 2023 season?

I'd like to get over 1,800 total yards this year and average 200 yards per game. 

What is your favorite food?

I love hibachi food. That's my favorite.

What is your favorite TV show or movie?

"Martin" is my favorite show, and I have to say "Rush Hour" is my favorite movie. 

What are your hobbies?

I like playing video games, but Madden is basically all I play. 

What is your favorite school subject?

I like math. I'm just good at it. 

What is the best advice you have received?

Never care about what others think. You can accomplish anything. 

Finish this sentence: "Josiah Booker is …"

Cool. But like, in all capital letters: COOL.