Spencer Gillus exemplifies what it means to have integrity. In a time when people are recognized for their fame or for their success, Spencer is being recognized for his character.
And that’s not to say he hasn’t achieved great success. Spencer is a stellar student, a track and field star, and a warrior on the football field. As Promotions and Outreach Coordinator at his school, Spencer initiated a mentoring program that matches senior boys with 7th-grade boys to help them get ready for high school.
Academic Advisor Leslie Patterson says, “I see Spencer interacting with his teachers and peers, and he has the utmost respect from all.”
Spencer lives by the motto, “Try new things." Living by this motto has gotten him a lot of places. “I didn’t think I’d be a good football player because I’m smaller, but I tried it and I love it a lot.”
When asked the secret to his success, Spencer is quick to credit his faith and his close-knit family, including a sister two years younger that he looks out for. “We have a strong family connection; we’ve always been good together.”
He says one of the things he likes best about living in the Allen/Lucas area is its wide-open spaces and slower pace. When he’s not in class or on the field, Spencer loves being with close friends in his free time. He can be found hanging out at with friends at their houses, eating with them at Chick-fil-A, or tossing the ball around at Celebration Park.
Spencer takes a humble, yet influential, approach to making a difference in the community around him. Unlike so many, he is not attention-seeking. “I call him our ‘quiet leader,’” Patterson continues, “He has a soft voice but his actions speak loudly."
What He’s Watching: Stranger Things
“I like the show’s mystery and suspense.”
Who He’s Following: Drake and Steve Lacy
“I like all kinds of music, so I follow a variety of artists.”
Dream Destination: Disney World
Five Lessons from Football:
Work in community
Have determination
Respect your coaches
Be consistent
Teamwork requires team bonding
What’s Next: Spencer hopes to attend either Abilene Christian or Texas A&M to study business management with a goal of becoming an entrepreneur.