From a young age, John Rhys Plumlee showcased a competitive spirit that was unmatched. Whether it was on the diamond, the gridiron, or even in the classroom, Plumlee had an insatiable desire to conquer any challenge that came his way.
Plumlee's parents, Lori and Denton, first noticed this competitive edge in their son at an early age. It followed him from the front yard pick-up games in their Hattiesburg, Miss. home to the sandy beaches of Central Florida, where he is now preparing for his final year as the starting quarterback at UCF.
As the middle child between his sisters Rhyan and Reese, John Rhys Plumlee always exuded an unbridled enthusiasm and energy. His need for constant activity was evident, and his family embraced it, valuing an active lifestyle. Even when his exuberance spilled over into school, they found ways to cope.
Throughout his childhood, Plumlee participated in multiple sports, juggling after-school basketball practices, soccer games, and splitting time between football and baseball. However, before his freshman year of high school, his parents made the decision to ask him to cut back on his sports schedule. Plumlee ultimately chose to focus on football and baseball, the sports that had always held a special place in his heart.
Baseball: A Love Affair
Plumlee's passion for baseball was evident during his time at Oak Grove High School, where he excelled as a .395 hitter over four varsity seasons. His impressive stats included 7 home runs, 75 RBIs, and an impressive 59 stolen bases in 111 career games, according to MaxPreps.com. His talent on the diamond even caught the attention of Major League Baseball scouts, but Plumlee turned down the opportunity to be drafted because he wanted to pursue football as well.
Football: A Family Connection
John Rhys Plumlee inherited his love for football from his father, Denton, who had also enjoyed playing various sports during his own childhood. Although Denton admits he wasn't as gifted athletically as his son, he found his place on the football field playing defense. As Plumlee's father, Denton had the privilege of coaching him during his early years. Plumlee's football journey began in ninth grade at Oak Grove High, where he initially played safety before moving up to linebacker.
A Musical Talent Unveiled
When John Rhys Plumlee isn't showcasing his skills on the baseball diamond or the football field, you can often find him immersed in another passion: music. Plumlee's love for music started at a young age when he began playing the piano in second grade. His parents, Lori and Denton, believed in the importance of studying something that could be carried throughout life, even after his athletic career came to an end.
Plumlee's grandmother played a pivotal role in nurturing his musical talent. She introduced him to the piano and provided him with lessons. The family also hired a piano teacher, but it was the one-on-one sessions with his grandmother that fueled his passion. Plumlee's competitive nature extended to his musical endeavors, as he participated in events sponsored by the Mississippi Music Teachers Association. At one point, he even held the top ranking in the state for his performance.
John Rhys Plumlee's charisma and charm are undeniable. Recently, during UCF's Knight Nation Celebration, Plumlee took the stage and led fans in a spirited rendition of Zombie Nation. It was yet another example of his ability to captivate an audience, both on and off the field.
As John Rhys Plumlee prepares to embark on his final year as the starting quarterback at UCF, his competitive spirit and multifaceted talents continue to shine. From his success in baseball and football to his musical prowess, Plumlee embodies what it means to be a true competitor. The world eagerly anticipates the next chapter in his remarkable journey.
