For Xavier (Zay) Middleton, becoming Calvary Day School's starting running back was more than just earning a position. It was a moment that showed him how far he had come.
Middleton, who now starts at running back for the Cavaliers, has made a strong impact this season, recording more than 100 rushing yards in each of his first three games. However, his success did not happen overnight.
Before becoming a varsity starter, Middleton spent time developing his skills and putting in extra work. He put in the extra work and spent his weekends dedicated to football, focusing on building strength and speed through workouts and running drills. He also worked on position-specific skills, including footwork, quick cuts, acceleration, and ball control.
Calvary Day running back Xavier “Zay” Middleton carries the ball against Jenkins. Middleton rushed for more than 100 yards and scored a touchdown in the Cavaliers’ 30-13 win. (Photo courtesy of Calvary Day School Athletics)
As a running back, Middleton faces one of football's most physically demanding positions. He is responsible for carrying the ball and fighting through defenders, often taking hits on nearly every play.
“The hardest thing about my position would probably be the physical toll,” Middleton said. “I basically get hit almost every play.”
Despite the physical demands of the position, Middleton has continued to develop. He said some of his biggest challenges when starting out were his size, strength, and speed.
“I wasn't the strongest or fastest out of the people I knew,” he said.
Rather than letting those challenges hold him back, Middleton stayed committed to improving. He believes that putting in even a small amount of extra work can make a major difference for younger players hoping to improve.
“I would tell them to put in even a little bit of extra work,” Middleton said. “Extra work can take you a long way.”
While Middleton's dedication has helped him grow as a player, he credits Calvary's football program with helping him develop both mentally and physically. For him, the program's impact goes beyond what happens during practices.
Calvary Day running back Xavier “Zay” Middleton, who worked his way from the junior varsity team to the Cavaliers’ starting backfield, is shown during a break in game this season. (Photo courtesy of Calvary Day School Athletics)
Middleton said one of the things that makes Calvary football special is the community surrounding the team. “It's the people always being there for support,” Middleton said.
That sense of community has helped shape Middleton throughout his high school football career. Although his journey began on JV, he continued working toward the opportunity to compete at the varsity level. Now, as Calvary's starting running back, his rise from JV reflects more than moving up a level.
From putting in extra work to overcoming physical challenges and finding support within his team, Middleton's journey shows the work, growth, and community that continue to shape Calvary football players both on and off the field.
Student Correspondent Note: Arya Korat is a Calvary Day School student and a member of the Prep Sports Report/Optim Orthopedics Student Correspondent Program, which allows local students to cover their schools, interview athletes and coaches, and gain real-world sports journalism experience.
The Prep Sports Report Student Correspondent Program is proudly sponsored by Optim Orthopedics, supporting Savannah-area student-athletes and the next generation telling their stories.
Photos courtesy of Calvary Day School Athletics
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Team physicians include Dr. Don Aaron (Bryan County), Dr. David Sedory (Benedictine, Bradwell Institute, Liberty County), Dr. David Palmer (Calvary Day, Richmond Hill, South Effingham), and Dr. Thomas Alexander (Savannah Country Day, St. Vincent's Academy).
