*Football Journey**
- **Early Beginnings**: Elijah’s passion for football was sparked at home, throwing to his three sisters, father, and mother in backyard sessions. These early moments honed his skills and fostered a deep love for the game, laying the foundation for his advanced football intelligence.
- **Pop Warner Wolverines (Watchung Hills, NJ)**: Elijah began his organized football career with the Pop Warner Wolverines in Watchung Hills, New Jersey, playing flag football and 8U tackle football. This program provided a supportive environment to develop his throwing mechanics and game awareness.
- **AAU and The Chargers (Bound Brook, NJ)**: Seeking greater competition, Elijah joined The Chargers, a top-tier AAU program in Bound Brook, NJ. In his first spring season, he played up against older opponents, leading his team deep into the playoffs. His ability to read defenses, make audibles, and direct receivers to exploit gaps or counter stacked defenses showcased his quarterback prowess. Thriving in The Chargers’ complex, movement-heavy offense, he stayed for the fall season, further refining his skills.
- **Relocation to Florida – Celebration Storm (Premier Spring League)**: After moving to Florida, Elijah joined the Celebration Storm in the Premier Spring League, marking one of his most successful seasons. Under exceptional coaching, he excelled as a “field general,” making real-time play adjustments and leading a dynamic, trick-play-heavy offense. His composure and football knowledge earned high praise, culminating in a trophy win at IMG Academy during the playoffs.
- **Current Team: Central Florida Lions (Florida Elite Football & Cheerleading)**: Elijah currently plays for the Central Florida Lions in the Florida Elite Football & Cheerleading league, one of the nation’s premier youth football programs. Affiliated with a Christ-centered organization focused on “S.M.A.R.T. Youth” (Sports, Ministry, Academics/Arts, Restoration, Technology/Trade), the Lions provide an elite platform for Elijah to compete against top talent and gain visibility as he progresses toward high school football.

**Quarterback Training**
Elijah’s rapid development is fueled by an elite training regimen and high-caliber coaching:
- **First Trainer (Seton Hall College Player, NJ)**: A former Seton Hall college football player helped Elijah refine his throwing rhythm, establishing a smooth, consistent motion critical for a young quarterback.
- **Second Trainer (BYU, Mentored by Phil Simms)**: A trainer who played at BYU and was mentored by NFL legend Phil Simms (New York Giants) enhanced Elijah’s footwork, accuracy, and quick decision-making, preparing him for competitive play.
- **Test Facility Training**: Elijah trains at the Test Facility, a prestigious training center where college athletes prepare for the NFL Combine. This elite environment exposes him to advanced drills, strength conditioning, and performance techniques, rare for a middle school athlete, positioning him among future professional prospects.
- **1,000 Daily Throwing Reps**: Elijah’s extraordinary work ethic is exemplified by his commitment to completing 1,000 throwing reps daily. This professional-level routine, likely incorporating short passes, deep balls, and quick releases, enhances his arm strength, accuracy, and muscle memory, reinforcing his dedication to becoming the best quarterback possible.

**Achievements and Recognition**
- **2025 Youth Athlete of the Year (6th Place)**: Elijah is ranked 6th in Colossal’s 2025 Youth Athlete of the Year competition, hosted by Russell Wilson and sponsored by 3BRAND, benefiting the Why Not You Foundation and the V Foundation for Cancer Research. The award celebrates young athletes who lead with integrity and excel in their sport, with the winner receiving a $25,000 prize and a feature in a 3BRAND Sports Illustrated ad.
- **Playoff Success**: Elijah’s teams have excelled in high-stakes games, including deep playoff runs with The Chargers and a trophy win with the Celebration Storm at IMG Academy, highlighting his ability to perform under pressure.
- **Football IQ and Leadership**: Coaches praise Elijah’s exceptional game awareness, calmness in the pocket, and ability to execute complex plays, making real-time adjustments that set him apart as a quarterback.
- **Early Recognition**: A July 15, 2025, post from @PlayBookAthlete on X welcomed Elijah to #TeamAI, recognizing his potential in youth football circles (@pooladymez).

**Other Interests**
- **Wrestling (3–4 Years)**: Elijah competed in wrestling for 3–4 years, showcasing his athletic versatility and physical toughness. Footage of his matches is available on his TikTok (@pooladymez).
- **Sports Trading Cards**: He enjoys collecting sports trading cards, reflecting his passion for sports culture.
- **Wildlife and Fishing**: Elijah loves outdoor activities, including fishing and engaging with wildlife, connecting him to nature.
- **Family Time**: Supported by his parents and three sisters, Elijah values quality time with his family, who have been instrumental in his athletic and personal growth.
- **Community Volunteering and St. Jude Fundraising**: Elijah actively volunteers in his community, with a notable focus on fundraising for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. His efforts support the hospital’s mission to advance treatments for pediatric cancer and other life-threatening diseases, demonstrating his commitment to making a positive impact beyond sports.

**Social Media Presence**
- **TikTok (@pooladymez)**: With 53 likes, Elijah shares football highlights, wrestling footage, and personal content, building a growing fanbase as a young athlete.
- **YouTube**: His channel features additional football content, likely including game highlights and training videos.
- **X Platform**: The @PlayBookAthlete post (July 15, 2025) highlights Elijah’s early recognition, and his handle @pooladymez is a hub for his athletic journey.

**Future Outlook**
As a Class of 2032 quarterback, Elijah is likely in middle school, with several years to develop before high school football, a critical stage for college recruitment. His experience in elite programs like the Central Florida Lions, training at the Test Facility, and rigorous 1,000 daily throwing reps position him as a top prospect. His early recognition, including the Youth Athlete of the Year nomination and @PlayBookAthlete shoutout, suggests he’s on the radar of youth football scouts. Elijah’s motto, “Whatever it takes, I want to be the best,” reflects a mindset poised for success in high school, college, and potentially beyond