Behind the Facemask: Asante Cleveland

June 5, 2011

CORAL GABLES, Fla. — With the 2011 season fast approaching and an opening match-up with Maryland on the horizon, it’s time to learn more about the Miami Hurricanes football team. Every day until Fall camp begins, we’ll introduce you to a Hurricane.

Asante Cleveland | Tight End | Sophomore | Sacramento, Calif.

When I was six years old I played soccer. I was a left wing. That was the sport I played the longest, almost eight years. I started football as a freshman in high school.

The U is tradition. Legacy. Tight ends.

I secretly wish that I were a 6-10 pitcher. Left-handed–those get paid the most money. I wish I played in high school. One of the coaches was trying to get me out there, and told me he would try and turn me into a pitcher, but I never pursued baseball.

Competition makes you better.

I didn’t think I’d ever be outside of California playing football in college. Definitely didn’t think I was going to the University of Miami, I was committed to Washington State all senior year.

Legacy lasts forever. Legacy is to make sure you’re never forgotten.

Playing football has given me a top college education. Some life-long friends. A new environment that is way different from my childhood in California.

You never know what will happen if you don’t try.

Sacramento is the capital of California, but no one knows that. It’s the safest place to live in California, probably.

Everybody can criticize what you do when they’re not out there doing it.

We are all capable of great things, it’s just whether you realize it or not.

I was raised by my dad as a single-parent. I was raised in Sacramento, California. I was raised to always try and be a gentleman. I was raised to always try to do my best.

Sophomore year will be better than freshman year.  I’m smarter, wiser, and more playing time, hopefully (laughs).

Make sure to check in for a new Behind the Facemask profile each and everyday in preparation for the Hurricane football season opener. For a review of all past profiles, check out Behind the Facemask Central.