WASHINGTON (May 21, 2024) – Howard University Department of Athletics Senior Spotlight series continues with a grad edition featuring two-time Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Champion Anim Dankwah (Ontario, Canada) from the football team, who was interviewed by journalism major rising senior Sareyah Rudd.
 
Q: At what age did you get into football and how?
A: I really got into football the summer after my junior year in high school. So, I must have been about 16 years old.
 
Q: Who or what would you say was your motivation on the football field? Also, is there anyone you admire in the football world who you may model your game after?
A: My favorite offensive lineman was Tyron Smith (NFL Standout) because I loved his approach to the game and I always wanted to be like him. He is the reason I wore the number 77.
 
Q: Can you revisit the moment you received your offer to join Howard football team and what kind of emotions you felt at the time?
A: It was a huge relief because of some unfortunate and unexpected circumstances, I had some difficulty with eligibility. So when I finally got cleared, Howard offered and I was extremely happy.
 
Q: What will you miss the most about Howard?
A: I will miss being part of the Howard Locker room because I reminisce the times hanging with my teammates.
 
Q: Give me some hype songs you would listen to while training or before a game.
A: I listen to any NBA Youngboy (American Rapper) or Pooh Shiesty (American Rapper). They usually get me going, but I listen to calmer music to ease my mind beforehand.
 
Q: What is your proudest accomplishment at Howard?
A: I am extremely proud of being able to graduate in four years.
 
Q: What advice do you have for black kids who may be expressing interest in a sport like football since it is such a competitive sport?
A: My advice is that this is a marathon, not a race because you could be up today and down tomorrow. Never get too high or too low, this journey is too long to base your success on a few unfortunate events or to be caught up in immense success.
 
And lastly, believe in yourself like your life depends on it because it does!
 
Q: What are your post-graduation plans?
A: To pursue a football career, then after that, to help other young men that were once like me.
 
Q: Lastly, what is the biggest thing you are going to take away from your Howard experience?
A: It is not over 'til it's over, always keep fighting.
 
About Dankwah:

• Personal:
  • Hometown: Brampton, ON
  • Major: Criminology
• Athletic Achievements at Howard:
  • Two-time MEAC Champion
  • Two-time All-MEAC selection
  • BOXTOROW HBCU All-American

 
For more information, visit the Bison Athletics website at www.HUBison.com.