For senior Arjan Jawanda, his decision to commit to Denison University to play college football represents the culmination of countless hours of grit, growth, and an unrelenting passion for the sport. As a center for the LFHS football team, he has been a key player in anchoring the offensive line while also serving as a model of leadership and precision.

Denison wasn’t just a choice for football— it was the perfect blend of athletics and opportunities for academic excellence that sealed the deal for him. 

“It’s a program that wants to win,” Jawanda said. “When I visited, they were very adamant about the winning culture and their excitement for the incoming freshman class.”

By choosing the pre-med path, Jawanda recognizes it as a “rigorous yet rewarding” journey and feels confident that Denison can offer both high-quality football along with a great education.

Jawanda’s football journey began in fifth grade, thanks to a fateful interaction with Mr. Goodman, father of senior Finn Goodman.

“He often tells a story of when I told him I was a baseball player, and he said, ‘No, you’re a football player.’ Ever since then, I dedicated myself to football as my primary sport and worked at it day and night,” Jawanda said. 

It wasn’t just the sport itself that drew Jawanda into joining— it was the camaraderie. With so many people he knew playing football, joining felt like a “no-brainer” for him.

The road to success wasn’t always smooth, however. Jawanda faced many challenges during his sophomore year when he was pulled up to varsity. 

“At 185 pounds and with little to no technique, there wasn’t much of a fight I could put up,” Jawanda said. “I’m grateful for Coach Soprych for giving me the opportunity to play as a sophomore, but man, did I suck.”

Instead of letting this experience discourage him, he used it as motivation. Despite a rocky start, Jawanda’s unwavering commitment to improve set him apart, and his resilience turned him into a standout player. 

That winter and spring, Jawanda focused on building strength and getting bigger through training with OL Mafia. He was fueled by a determination to do whatever it took to help his team win. 

“Arjan exemplifies dedication and determination, constantly pushing himself to improve both on and off the field,” Soprych said. “His work ethic is impeccable; he leads by example, motivating his teammates to give their best effort. His strong leadership skills foster a supportive and disciplined team environment encouraging others to rise to the occasion.”

Jawanda’s dedication to the team was not just about personal success but about fostering a winning culture.

“I genuinely committed to the program,” he said. “I wanted to do whatever it took to win games.”

And win they did. Jawanda’s leadership was evident during a memorable senior season filled with many highlights. From defeating Warren for the first time in a decade to an “electric” game against Carmel and a thrilling playoff victory over Libertyville, he cherished every moment.

“There’s nothing more I could have asked for out of a senior year than to spend that time with my brothers and win games,” Jawanda said. 

Reflecting on his time in high school football, Jawanda credits much of his growth to Coach Soprych. Their bond was reinforced by meaningful traditions, like a fist bump before every game— a ritual that began during Jawanda’s junior year and carried through his senior season.

“[He] has been my position coach for four years now, but he’s been more than just a coach. He’s been a guiding person in my life and a good place for advice and help whenever I need it, even if it’s not football-related,” he said. “I owe a lot to Coach Soprych and forever will.”

Reflecting on his recruitment process, Jawanda offers a grounded perspective for younger athletes, emphasizing the importance of staying patient and learning to “trust the process”.

“It was a long road of visits and texts,” he said. “My advice to people in the process would be to not get caught up in the posts of people getting offers. It can get discouraging seeing people getting offers you want, but everyone has a different path with college football.”

Above all, it’s the camaraderie and relationships that mean the most to Jawanda and is what he will cherish the most about playing football at LFHS.

“I love the brotherhood of it. I am an only child, but coming to school and practice gave me 40+ brothers,” he said.  “We could lose every game but, if I’m with them, that’s all that matters to me.”