It's the story everyone enjoys reading about. The underdog takes it all. Kai Money '18 may have been the underdog in this story, but on Saturday, September 12th in the Longhorn's season opener against the University of Texas-El Paso Miners, Money showed sports fans across the nation what hard work and determination can do.
Now a sophomore at the Big 12 school, the receiver walked on to the team in 2018 and got to work. While he didn't play in his first year, Money remained focused. That focus paid off when he entered Saturday's game at the end of the first half and caught a touchdown. While Longhorn fans and his hometown cheered him on, Money was elated at the support he received from his fellow teammates. "When I scored it felt amazing," says Money. "But what was even better was celebrating on the sideline with all my teammates. That was truly special."
One special moment won't derail Money from staying on track. While he appreciates the support that he's received from everyone in Austin and Brownsville, like former coaches and teachers at his alma maters Episcopal Day School and Saint Joseph Academy, it won't change the way he practices or his approach to everyday life, he said.
He adds that this approach and accepting support and guidance from coaches that sacrifice a lot, like Saint Joseph Athletic Director and Head Football Coach, Tino Villarreal '99 as well as former coach, Meme Garza '68, will help any student-athlete find success. "Commit to the goals you set yourself to," says Money. "At times they may seem unattainable but if you truly persevere, then it will work itself out."