BVA’s Labuda won’t let size stop him from producing at next level

By jose negron

jnegron@yourmvi.com

Standing at 5-8, Nolan Labuda isn’t the type of wide receiver who will tower over opposing defensive backs.

However, what he lacks in size, he makes up for with something else that can’t be taught: Heart.

“The main thing that kept me going was proving people wrong,” Labuda said. “I’m undersized, but that doesn’t stop me. When it comes to that, it’s heart over height.”

The Belle Vernon Area senior has defied the odds throughout his football playing career.

His small stature hasn’t kept him from achieving his goals and it won’t stand in his way of getting the opportunity to showcase his skills at the next level.

After an impressive four years playing for head coach Matt Humbert and the Leopards, Labuda will take his talents to Akron, Ohio where he will continue his academic and football careers at the University of Akron.

Labuda announced his commitment to play for head coach Tom Arth and the Zips via his Twitter account on Dec. 13. He signed his letter of intent five days later.

“It means the world to me to be able to continue my careers at a place like Akron,” said Labuda, adding that a big part of his decision was based on the education he will receive at the university. “I always take pride in excelling in school and I wanted to go to a place that was going to benefit me 20 years later when I’m out of school and working. The way coach Arth is handling the academic side of things at Akron is phenomenal.

“Football is a great bonus that I have been blessed to play. I look forward to taking my game to the next level.”

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