BARNES AIMS TO BE THE BEST

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By Michael Cruz

Dondre Barnes has the chance to lead the league in rushing this year. (GSPN file photo)

Not since the days of Corey Dunlop have the Sharks had such a dynamic runner. Dondre Barnes enters the IIAAG Football League season with Guam High’s Tegan Brown as the two best running backs on island.

“Its Great! Only two weeks of conditioning and we are already going to pad up,”said Barnes.

The junior saved his best performance in the championship game last season running for 228 yards on 30 attempts with three TDs. “It was an awesome season and we lost some of our most important players,” recalls Barnes.

Protect the Tradition

The Sharks brought back the title in 2012. Dondre is aware of the history that comes with seven championships under Coach Jimmy Naholowaa since 1992. “It was very important for us, we have not won since 2008, and bringing the trophy back was a great accomplishment,” said Barnes.

Dondre Barnes

Barnes’ number one goal is for the Sharks to defend the title and hold it down. The championship has switched hands from Guam High, GW and Sanchez the past three seasons.

“To take it again this year would really say and show something.” He also would like to average four to five touchdowns per game.

Strength through Adversity

Dondre attributes his success in life to his close knit family. His mother who recently passed instilled his desire to dream big. “She has always told me that if I want something. I have to go get it 100%.” His big sister Essence Lujan shows support in everything he does.

The league is going to have a hard time holding down Barnes this season. (GSPN file photo)

He is also thankful for brother-in-law Jason Lujan who taught him his first moves on the football field. Finally, he is thankful for one special person Kelsey Ann Salas.

“She has always pushed me through hard times, whenever I was hurting or just felt like giving up, she was there to pick me up, she was my motivation,” stated Barnes.

Finish Strong

Barnes has his own style on the field. “I really do what works for me and my own thing that helps the team win.”

He has aspirations to play college football and is trying to get in contact with a certified recruiter. He looks forward to facing GW again and considers them the Sharks biggest rival. He also considers Okkodo and Guam High strong teams.

“I want to be the best and look forward to the challenge from other competitors.”

Barnes and the Sharks have stiff competition right out of the gates with Saturday night against the talent-filled Panthers at Ramsey Field (JFK).

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