PJ was born and raised in Statesville, NC. He graduated in 2010, from West Iredell High School (WIHS) where he played varsity football. While at WIHS, PJ was an All American, 3x All County recipient, and a 4x All Conference recipient, which led him to be selected to play in the 2010 Shrine Bowl, as well as the East and West All-star game. PJ received a scholarship from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC), where he continued his football career and pursued a degree in exercise sports science. PJ then went on to play football for Winston Salem State University where he ended his collegiate career.

PJ’s love for the sport, the youth of the community, and encouragement from his son Trae, led him to become a coach for the Power Cross organization. PJ believes in teaching and looks for his athletes to become good ball players, but even better young men.

PJ has been a part of Power Cross as a defensive coach for four years and is constantly encouraging and challenging the young men of PC to be the best they can be.