Zion Saafir’s journey as a quarterback began in 2018, but his love for sports dates back even further. Growing up in Inglewood, California, Zion first developed an interest in baseball, where his strong arm caught the attention of those around him. His athleticism naturally extended to flag football, and after his first year, he was eager to take his game to the next level. His dad agreed to let him play tackle football for one season, and from that moment on, Zion’s passion for the sport has only grown stronger.

What Zion enjoys most about football is the camaraderie with his teammates and the work it takes to win. Football teaches him valuable lessons, especially the importance of competition and leadership. As a quarterback, Zion is in the unique position of having the ball in his hands on every play. He relishes this responsibility, knowing that as the leader of the team, he must make decisions that could impact the game. One of the most important lessons he has learned is to have a short memory when mistakes happen. As a quarterback, you can’t dwell on errors; you have to move on to the next play and keep the team focused.

Zion’s leadership and intelligence on the field are what he believes are essential qualities of a great quarterback. His role demands quick thinking, adaptability, and the ability to lead by example. His favorite quarterback, of course, is Patrick Mahomes, whose playmaking ability and leadership inspire Zion’s own approach to the game. But it’s not just football that Zion excels in; he’s also a skilled basketball player, a piano player, and even speaks Chinese. His wide range of interests reflects his dedication to being well-rounded, although football remains his top priority.

Zion’s commitment to football extends beyond his team practices. He has attended multiple camps, where the competition has challenged him to grow as a player. He enjoys the opportunity to compete against others and see where he stands. His short-term goals are to win the SYFL Championship and National Championship, but his long-term aspirations are just as ambitious. He’s determined to put in the work necessary to ensure he’s accepted into the high school of his choice, setting himself up for future success both on and off the field.

Despite his love for the game, Zion’s path hasn’t been without challenges. One of the toughest moments in his young career came when he injured his right wrist. This injury kept him from throwing the ball, and it was hard for Zion not to be able to perform on the field. However, he approached the situation with resilience, focusing on his therapy and working hard to regain strength and mobility in his wrist. This experience taught him the importance of perseverance and the ability to bounce back after setbacks.

While Zion doesn’t have many rituals before games, his dad offers him valuable advice, often reminding him to make good decisions, both on and off the field. Zion credits his youth football coach, Jeremy Bryant, for helping shape him as a player. Coach Bryant taught him the fundamentals of the game, such as hitting and tackling, that went beyond just being a quarterback. This well-rounded foundation has been crucial in Zion’s development as a player.

For Zion, the best advice for young athletes is to enjoy the game and watch others who play the same position. He encourages aspiring quarterbacks to study the game, learn from the best, and be realistic about their abilities. Football is a constant learning experience, and Zion understands that improvement comes from consistent effort and self-awareness.

Throughout his journey, Zion has faced injuries, including a wrist injury and an elbow issue, both of which caused him to miss games. However, these setbacks didn’t stop him; they only fueled his determination to grow stronger and get back on the field. His workouts at MAP in Inglewood, CA, are a testament to his dedication to improving his strength and conditioning, ensuring that he’s ready for whatever challenges come next.

One of Zion’s most memorable moments came during his time with the 10u team when they played a nationally competitive team. While they didn’t win the game, it was a turning point for Zion, as he realized the level of competition and the opportunities ahead of him. That moment, along with his subsequent championship win and the ring he earned, remains a highlight in his young career.

Zion Saafir’s journey is just beginning, and with his determination, leadership, and passion for football, there’s no telling how far he will go. Whether he’s making game-winning decisions on the field or striving for excellence in his academics and other interests, Zion’s future is bright.