Growing up with football inspires some student athletes to play in the NFL and be great, like Jerry Rice or Peyton Manning.

But for senior Davon Gillum, or “Peanut” as others know him, football isn’t an illusion about fame or simply a fall sport, it’s his escape from reality.

“Once you hit that field you’re in a different world,” Gillum said.

Since he was 9, his young world revolved around watching football and playing outside all day. For one reason or another, he didn’t play for a football team until the beginning of eighth grade. His mother finally decided to sign him up for football and from there, he began playing for the South Stockton Vikings. Playing as free safety and occasionally running back in his high school career, Gillum has proven to be a successful student-athlete as he graduates with a 3.0 grade-point average.

“Football made me want to be somebody,” Gillum said. “I was part of a team filled with people I trusted — a family.”

His mother provided him with what he needed, a roof over his head and food on the table. Gillum’s dream of football transformed his persona and matured him into the humble man he is today.

“You learn how to work hard and never give up when things get rough,” Gillum said.

He believes that God puts the strongest people in the worst situations, such as family issues and financial difficulties, because he knows he will make it through. Living up to his morals, Gillum knew he had the ability to beat St. Mary’s or score an 80 yard run against Beyer during the first playoff game. These are memories that he will carry with him to Sacramento City College, where he will attend this summer and receive a business degree. The best part — he will be playing football for them as well.