BY CHRISTY WELLS
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN

INEZ — Martin County junior Corey Parsley played football one year for the  Martin County Youth League, two years for Martin County Middle School and is entering his third season for Martin County High School. He has played many offensive and defensive positions, his primary role being right guard.

Hard work earned Parsley a starting position since his freshman season. During that season, Martin County was ranked eighth in rushing in the nation, and Parsley is proud that he was a primary part of that distinction.

Parsley wears the No. 65 on his back and attributes his success on the field to his high football IQ. He is grateful to his parents for being his biggest supporters.

For younger players, Parsley offers advice.

“Work hard, pay attention to the older guys, and your time will come,” he said. “It’s hard to give up your summers, put your body and mind through the work, but it creates discipline. You are now a part of something bigger than yourself.”

Parsley would love to continue playing football after high school if the opportunity presents itself. If not, he plans to join the trades.

What he likes most about Martin County is how united the community is and “how everyone knows everyone.”

He shared his thoughts on the upcoming season: “We will have a great season. We are playing a tougher schedule and have to fill some open spots, but we will be playoff ready. I really think we can be undefeated because our talent and skill are unmeasurable.”

Parsley is the 16-year-old son of Raun and Melissa Parsley.