When Josh Leon was a young kid, he went through an experience most kids don’t get.

“I was born in Chicago, Illinois. I lived there until I was 2 and then moved to Rolla because my dad got the opportunity to open up El Maguey here. I grew up at El Maguey, so I would always play in my dad’s office or play on the big rocks outside. It was a second home to me. I love Chicago more than any other city; I feel right at home there, too,” Leon said.

And although the transition and move was mildly easy for Leon, things began to change. After a few years of working in Rolla, Leon’s parents did not see eye-to-eye with each other and decided to go their separate ways.

“The most life-changing thing was my parents getting a divorce and I wasn’t able to be with both of them at the same time anymore. The whole ‘complete family’ thing wasn’t in effect anymore and it sucked. It was hard to adjust and it took a long time, but I love both my parents and thank God for giving me an opportunity to have a good relationship with the both of them,” Leon said.

Although many divorced parents don’t always get along well, there is always the exception with equal participation in the child’s life. Fortunately for Leon, his parents were able to put their differences aside for the good of their children.

“In my mom’s case, she’s only missed one my football games out of the six years I’ve played. My dad, on the other hand, has been very busy with his job and does whatever he can to make it to my games. With academics, they have both been on my back and helping me try to improve in whatever classes I’ve been taking. They are both equally supportive in everything I do. They do still get along; which is a big plus when it comes to divorced parents,” Leon said.

Like all parents, they want to see their children succeed and Leon’s family wants the best for him. His plans for next year include going to college to further his education.

“I would like to go to Lindenwood University for sports medicine, but I don’t know if I’m going to play football there. I’m not going to work at El Maguey after I start college, but  I will during the summer just to help pay for expenses. After football season ends, I am going to be working more shifts to work and help with my college expenses.”