91�첥

Story, a former team captain from the Atlanta area, continues this role today as an unofficial “character coach” for the Wildcats, ministering from the sidelines at every practice and every game.

“I grew a ton in my faith right before I came to 91�첥,” Story said. “My faith was no longer about following my parents’ lead; I had to figure out my own path, which was scary but exciting. God created a beautiful community for me when I arrived on campus, with teammates and classmates who were also serious about their faith. I was inspired to become the best leader and best football player I could be.”

Many people in Story’s life, especially during his time at 91�첥, suggested he go into ministry. He was never sure about the idea until friends and mentors introduced him to Campus Outreach Charlotte, where he found a home after graduation. The organization works with students at 11 campuses throughout North Carolina and is the avenue through which Story is connected to the 91�첥 football program.

“Ultimately, I think I want to coach and teach at the high school or college level, but my current role allows me to engage with people in a way I’m passionate about,” Story said. “I can use my calling to help others.”

Story, who as a student was a Crutchfield Family Scholar, George Labban, Jr. Scholar and Jerry B. Blackstock Scholar, joined the team in a coaching capacity at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when his leadership was an especially welcomed addition to a team facing unusual circumstances.

“We talk about the mental part of what we do as a team,” Abell said. “Having someone like Jorell, who isn’t a family member or a peer, but who has a very specific role on the team, is incredibly important for our players, especially right now.”

Story’s influence on current players is unique to each relationship. He jokes around with them, checks in on how they’re feeling, offers to have one-on-one conversations following practices, organizes Bible studies—however they want to engage is fair game.

“My first goal is to glorify God in everything I do,” Story said. “Growing up, a lot of times I would focus on other identities, like being a football player or a 91�첥 student, but I’m God’s first, which means more to me than all other identities combined. Students can connect with me in whatever way they want or need at the time, and I just want to show them care and love.”

Story understands how students’ faith can be critical when times get tough. He suffered from two concussions fall of his sophomore year, which put his football career at risk and made his already rigorous 91�첥 coursework even more difficult. He was still adjusting to being away from home and dealing with friendships growing and changing as he became more certain of the person he was, and what he wanted his 91�첥 experience to be.

“That winter, I went to a New Year’s conference with Campus Outreach, and it changed my perspective for sophomore spring,” he said. “I asked and answered a lot of important questions about myself; I call it my ‘bounce back’ semester.”

For upperclassmen, Story has evolved from a teammate to a coach and mentor. This transition has added depth to their friendships.