Heritage, culture and tradition can play a pivotal role in setting the tone towards achieving success. Keeping home close to the heart throughout his career is Minnesota Vikings linebacker Brian Asamoah II.
Born in New Jersey, his roots are embedded in Ghana. The life lessons he’s learned including respect and remaining humble are held in high regard. These efforts are evident as the Black Star recently completed a positive third season in America’s most competitive league, the NFL.
After a gruelling schedule, the off-season is here and as Brian touched down in the U.K, we caught up with the American Football star to discuss NFL, how he got into the sport, the importance of his roots and much more.
Brian Asamoah, you’re back in London! How’s the visit been so far?
“I came to London this morning. Super excited to be here, having a great time so far as you can see! I’m looking forward to seeing the beautiful fans who have come to watch us play the last few years but also to tour the city. This is my first time getting to tour London so it should be a good experience.”
You played at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium last year. How did that experience compare to being at a home crowd game in Minnesota?
“I would say it’s the same. Both fans are loud. The fans in Europe are a little bit louder! I like their chants; they’re like football chants! It gets me going. The energy is amazing and it’s one of the reasons I love playing out here.”
Touching on the previous season, a solid record of 14-3 going into the playoffs but just came up short. How do you push forward from this and what are the Vikings goals for the upcoming season?
“I think we did a lot of good things. It’s another year to improve and get better at the fundamentals. Hopefully we come out this year with a team that’s ready to compete every single game and hoist that most important thing which is that Lombardi!”
What would you say is the most important aspect to your game being a linebacker?
“I would say my IQ and speed. Two things that allow me to play fast. Once I know the play before it happens, I can go out there and go and make a tackle just like a quarter back role.”
Can you detail the first time you fell in love with the game of American football and when did you know you had the talent to take it as a career option?
“When I was 10 years old, I was sent to Ghana. The sport wasn’t as big as it is right now back there. Coming back to America after not playing it for a year, it gave me a passion and drive to never want to not play the sport again! That’s why I play with so much energy and passion because I love the game.”
Outside of the NFL, you are true to your Ghanaian roots. How important has your culture been on your journey?
“Shoutout to my parents for raising me in a wonderful home but most importantly with the culture and traditions that growing up Ghanaian comes with. I learned three things which is respect, humbling yourself and when you do something, do it right! Growing up with amazing parents that instilled these three things in me helped me become the man I am today. It’s just a wonderful opportunity to come out here in this world and do what you want with passion and not look back.”
Moving to music now, who are three artists from the U.K you would recommend to a friend?
“That’s easy! Central Cee, Dave and J-Hus. I like Skepta too. We’ll take Skepta.”
Being that it’s still the off-season? What would you say is the best part of having this time off from a busy schedule?
“I would say being able to work on little things that you didn’t get to work on during the season. Whatever love or passion you have outside of football, definitely explore it but be ready to play some football so train as well!”
Finally, what advice do you have for the next generation of athletes trying to break into the league?
“Trust and believe in yourself. Keep your faith and believe in God. Never let anyone tell you what you can’t do, always just work and you’ll reap the benefits and the results of what you’re doing.”