Why Elias Redlew is a three-sport standout at San Pedro High

"When Elias Redlew was 14 years old and a freshman putting on football pads for the first time to try to impress his parents at home, he didn't know what he was doing. "I didn't know how much range of movement I'd have or how it would affect my speed," he said. His father tried to help him. "I walked outside and hit the door and he said, 'You're going to have to get used to the pads.'""

"Redlew, 6 feet 2 and 185 pounds, has gotten as comfortable wearing pads as Superman wearing a red cape. He has become a three-sport standout at San Pedro High with a 4.7 grade-point average. He was the City Section Open Division offensive player of the year as a junior receiver. This season, he has 60 catches for 1,150 yards and 13 touchdowns. He's also a starting guard who dunks for the basketball team and is one of the favorites to win a City high jump championship after tying for second place last year."

"'He never played football until high school,' coach Corey Walsh said. 'His potential is super high. Each year, he's continued to get better.' Redlew's intelligence combined with a personality that makes him unafraid to explore new experiences offers insights into an athlete not afraid to be uncomfortable at times. 'Experience brings you intellect,' he said. 'If you step out of your comfort zone, it will build knowledge.' San Pedro basketball coach John Bobich has known Redlew since he was 11. He was on a youth basketball team with his son. 'He is one the most humble and kindest athletes I've known,' Bobich said. 'He definitely has the record for fist bumps as not a day goes by where Elias walks up with a fist bump and a smile saying, 'Hello coach B!''"

Elias Redlew began playing organized football as a freshman at age 14 and initially struggled with movement in pads. He is 6 feet 2 and 185 pounds, maintains a 4.7 GPA, and excels in football, basketball and track. He was City Section Open Division offensive player of the year as a junior and this season has 60 catches for 1,150 yards and 13 touchdowns. He starts at guard on the basketball team, can dunk, and is a contender in the high jump after tying for second last year. Coaches praise his humility, intelligence and willingness to leave his comfort zone.

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