'Hard on the body and the mind.' How playing two sports pushed Dante Trader Jr. to the NFL
Briefly

The article explores the interrelationship between lacrosse and football, highlighting the journey of Dante Trader Jr., a dual-sport athlete who was drafted by the Miami Dolphins. Trader emphasizes the physical and mental benefits gained from playing both sports, explaining how lacrosse has enhanced his quickness and resilience on the football field. His experiences illustrate the challenges of balancing two demanding sports, and he reflects on how lacrosse has equipped him with the confidence and grit necessary to excel in a high-pressure environment like the NFL.
"Playing 18 straight months in two sports is hard on the body and the mind," Dante Trader Jr. said.
"Physically, I had to cover on an island. There is a lot more space for lacrosse... I have the short-area quickness that DBs need," Trader mentioned.
"Two sports allowed me to be resilient, and nothing can really bother me and get to me... I got the grit and mental fortitude from lacrosse," Trader explained.
Trader initially committed to Maryland for lacrosse. A top-10 prospect out of high school, Trader chose to play football for the Terrapins as a freshman in 2022.
Read at Miami Herald
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