COACH'S GAME BALL: Maurice Lewis

Maurice Lewis, a senior exercise science major from Lumberton, N.C. has been selected by first-year head football coach Kienus Boulware for this issue’s Coach’s Game Ball.

Boulware said he selected the running back because of his effective leadership, courage and initiative.

Boulware said that he admires him for his exceptional work ethic during the offseason and throughout his four years.

Lewis, selected to the preseason 2013 All-CIAA team, has recorded great numbers throughout his career at Winston-Salem State, including an impressive 902 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns last season.

News Argus: How long have you been playing football?

Lewis: I’m 22 now, and I’ve been playing football ever since I was about 9. My brothers always played football, and they introduced me to the game. I would say that was when I fell in love with the sport.

News Argus: Do you have any pregame rituals?

Lewis: I look at all of the NFL running backs, such as Adrian Peterson and Marshawn Lynch. I take a little bit from them and try to put it into my game.

News Argus: Which professional football player, if you had to choose, do you model yourself after?

Lewis: There are a lot of good running backs in the NFL, but if I had to pick, I probably would say Adrian Peterson because of the mixture of power, speed and moves.

News Argus: What did you learn from the loss to Valdosta State?

Lewis: I learned that mistakes can kill a team, and if you let anything get too high it will have a negative effect on the team; mainly mistakes and a lack of mental focus.

News Argus: What would you say was your most memorable moment as a football player thus far?

Lewis: The time when I jumped over a defender against Bowie State.

News Argus: What other hobbies do you have outside of football?

Lewis: I like to read entertaining books, listen to music and play video games.

News Argus: Describe your overall experience as a WSSU football player.

Lewis: I think you grow to love it. It may not be what you want at first, but ultimately you will realize how good you have it here and how successful of a program it is and enjoy it to the fullest.

News Argus: What are your plans after leaving WSSU?

Lewis: I want to get some type of play at the next level. If that doesn’t work, then I’ll turn to plan B -- a strength conditioning coach or an exercise physiologist.

News Argus: What advice would you give to young aspiring football players who have not yet reached the collegiate level?

Lewis: I would say, ‘Keep your head in the books, keep your GPA up and do not be outworked. ‘