WHAT’S YOUR WHY? Featuring: Paul “PJ” Cooper | Wide Receiver | North Gwinnett High School

Some athletes are born into opportunity. Others grow up learning how to value every inch of progress because nothing was handed to them. Paul “PJ” Cooper is firmly rooted in the second group.

Born in Youngstown, Ohio, PJ’s early life was shaped by sacrifice, humility, and resilience. Living with his cousins, uncle, mother, and sister, resources were limited—but perspective was rich. “We didn’t grow up with a lot,” PJ says, “and it made me appreciate the small things and where I’m at today.”

That appreciation shows up in how he trains, how he carries himself, and how he attacks his future.

A Note That Changed Everything

PJ’s football journey didn’t begin with a long-term plan or a highlight tape—it started with a handwritten note.

“I started playing in the third grade,” he laughs. “One of my friends slid me a note in class asking if I wanted to play football.”

That small moment sparked a passion that has grown into a serious pursuit. What started as curiosity quickly became commitment.

Playing for His Why

Ask PJ why he competes, and the answer comes without hesitation.

“My mom,” he says.

Raised primarily by a single mother who worked a demanding job at a bank—often traveling—PJ witnessed sacrifice up close. She provided stability, opportunity, and love, even when it cost her comfort.

“I want to be able to retire my mom and give her the luxurious life she gave me,” PJ says.

That purpose fuels every rep, every sprint, and every recovery session.

Inspired by the Unseen

PJ draws inspiration from Quention Gibson, a player who flew under the radar until his senior year before exploding onto the Division I recruiting scene.

“He was unknown until his senior year and got a lot of D1 offers,” PJ explains. “That shows it could be anybody.”

That belief shapes how PJ approaches the process. He understands that development is not linear, and timing belongs to those who stay ready.

The Work Nobody Sees

At North Gwinnett, PJ’s training week is relentless by design.

During the week, he’s in the weight room surrounded by football coaches and teammates who push him daily. Weekends are reserved for speed, agility, and refining his wide receiver craft—route running, explosiveness, and detail work.

Before games, PJ finds quiet. Music on. Distractions off. “I like to go somewhere where it’s just me and my thoughts so I can lock in.”

Recovery is equally intentional. Through the team’s partnership with Revitalize, PJ uses advanced recovery methods like cryotherapy and massage, ensuring his body stays prepared for the grind.

The Injury That Changed Him

One of the most important parts of PJ’s story isn’t found in a stat line.

A season-ending knee injury his freshman year forced him into a battle that tested more than his body. Physical therapy became a daily commitment. Progress was slow. Confidence was challenged.

“I had to work every day in physical therapy just to get back to about 80% of where I was,” he shares.

That injury still lingers at times but instead of defining him, it sharpened him. It taught him patience, accountability, and the reality that growth often comes through discomfort.

Faith, Focus, and Leadership

God plays a central role in PJ’s life and approach to the game.

“His word gives me the discipline I need to stay focused on my goal,” he says.

Teammates see him as a role player who pushes no matter what the drill is someone who doesn’t take reps off and doesn’t shy away from the grind.

Leadership, to PJ, isn’t about volume. “It’s leading people in the right direction and correcting them when they’re wrong.”

When pressure shows up, his mindset flips the script. “How can I use this pressure to get better?” he asks himself.

That’s growth thinking and it’s rare.

Fueled by Family and Community

Both of PJ’s parents have invested heavily in his journey, financially and emotionally. “The money they’ve laid on the line for me to play sports fuels me to repay them,” he says.

Outside the home, his youth pastor has been a key influence, consistently checking in on him both mentally and spiritually.

That support system has helped PJ stay grounded while reaching higher.

More Than Just Football

Football has shaped PJ into more than an athlete.

“It taught me how to be a man,” he says. “It taught me discipline. It also taught me that actions have consequences even the little things.”

If football ever ends, PJ already sees beyond it. He’s interested in becoming a lawyer or a coach, continuing to impact lives through leadership and guidance.

A Message to the Next One

PJ’s message to younger athletes is simple but powerful:

“Anybody can go D1. You just have to work for it.”

That belief comes from lived experience, not theory.

Final Word

Paul “PJ” Cooper is still writing his story. He’s not chasing shortcuts or recognition, he’s chasing growth, consistency, and purpose.

He plays for his mother. He trains for his future. He competes with faith.

And his “why” is bigger than football.