“There’s a saying from my childhood: “When the going gets tough, the tough get going.” That perfectly describes Damien. He provided numerous examples of this mindset. During challenging moments for our team, he was the one who remained resilient; he intensified his efforts. He concentrated on self-improvement and motivated his teammates to elevate their performance as well.” – Coach Gellar, Centennial High School, Burleson, Texas.
Since May 16, 2007, in Dallas, Texas, it seemed that football would play a pivotal role in Damien’s life. As a loving gesture to his family, his hospital outfit was a University of Texas onesie. It was no surprise to see Damien evolve into a devoted football fan. Watching him learn and engage with the game he adores is truly inspiring. As a toddler, he would sit transfixed in front of the television, seemingly grasping every play. He began playing in a youth league at the age of five, and throughout the years, coaches consistently praised his discipline, football intelligence, ability to follow direction, athleticism, and leadership.
Typically laid-back, mild-mannered, and introverted, Damien transforms into someone extraordinary on the field. Football holds significant importance for him, but it does not surpass his love for family and God. As the oldest brother to Juju, Jewels, J2, and Justice, he cherishes his role as a big brother, receiving their respect and affection in return. He enjoys spending quality time with family and friends. Damien is a man of prayer, nurturing a personal and intimate relationship with God, independent of outside influences. His guiding verse is John 16:33:
“I have told you these things so that you can have peace in me. In this world, you will have troubles. But be brave! I have defeated the world!”
The scripture featured on his baby shower invitations was Jeremiah 1:5:
“Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you, before you were born, I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.”
This scripture is fitting; even as a quiet child, he learned the Lord’s Prayer that his mother recited, and before turning three, he could recite it at Thanksgiving dinner. He creates vision boards, believing in God’s promises for his aspirations, which extend beyond football; his primary goal is to continue deepening his faith in God.
Over the years, Damien has accumulated, a wealth of accolades in both football and track. As he approached his Senior Year for the 2024-2025 season. He was appointed as the leading wide receiver, proudly wearing number 3 at Centennial High School. With three years of varsity experience, he has earned recognition as a two-time 1st All-District player, two-time 1st Team Johnson County member, and All-Area. In a standout game against Highland Park, he stepped in as the second-string quarterback, scoring a touchdown, and also made his mark as a wide receiver, contributing the team’s only points in that match. During the first playoff game against Georgetown, even when down 28-0, the team rallied after halftime, pushing into double overtime but ultimately falling 48-42.
Looking ahead, Damien is dedicated to playing as a wide receiver for Pittsburg State University in the fall of 2025.
Damien is so loved and supported by a village: Parents, Athena and Jonnathan Jefferson, his father, Damien Long Sr.. Siblings: Juju, Jewels, Alia, Josiah, and Justice. Grandparents, Maulcia Reece, Francis Long, Emmanuel Kasey, Jacqueline and Gwinn Smith, Tamisha Crowley, and C.J. Jefferson). His heavenly grandparents: Michelle Kasey, Burks Williams Jr. and Romeo Crowley. His Aunts and Uncles: Champaigne, Trey, Jazmin (Edwin), Desiree, Khanistan, Tiara, Tyrann (RIP), Trenee, Titus, Tristan, Tyler, Taylor, Charlisha, Charlie, M.J., Kia, Lil Romeo, Samaria, Cassie, Stephanie, Chris, Abia and Tremella. God parents: Daquetta, Chanelle and Keith. Great Aunts: Kay, Kim, Tree, Patt, Toni, Cheri and Sheila. Great Uncles: Alvis, Kenneth, Ahmed, Jamil, William, Shoko, James, and Adrian. The Kasey Family, Rhodes Family and Watkins family. Many cousins, family and friends. His village has been devoted to send words of encouragement, prayers, money/gifts, support and most importantly love.
In his leisure time, he enjoys playing PlayStation, watching horror/sci-fi movies with his mom, relaxing, spending quality moments with family and friends, and eating his favorites Chipotle, seafood and wings.
Driven by passion, built on discipline — Damien’s journey inspires greatness.
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