WHAT’S YOUR WHY? David Faulk IV | Kicker | Alabama A&M University
Updated: 8 hours ago
Some journeys into football start at Pop Warner. Others begin on a soccer field, years before anyone ever imagined a goalpost would define the future.
David Faulk IV’s path is proof that it’s never too late to answer the call.
Built in Huntsville
Raised in Huntsville, Alabama, David grew up with structure, discipline, and strong values. The city gave him a foundation; one built on work ethic and accountability, long before football ever entered the picture.
Athletics were not a family tradition. There was no legacy waiting for him to inherit.
That made the mission personal.
From Soccer to Saturdays
David played soccer his entire childhood. Football didn’t arrive until his senior year of high school, when a coach saw something in him and asked him to join the team as a kicker.
Most players would hesitate.
David leaned in.
His Why
At the core of David’s drive is something simple, but powerful.
He competes to become his own man and to represent his last name the right way.
When his little brother was born, that “why” deepened. Now, everything he does carries an added responsibility: showing him that effort matters and that you truly get out what you put in.
Inspired by His Mother
David’s greatest inspiration is his mother, the hardest worker he knows. She provided, sacrificed, and modeled resilience daily. Her example set the standard long before college athletics ever did.
Creating a Legacy from Scratch
With no athletic background in his bloodline, David isn’t continuing a tradition, he’s creating one.
His goal is to leave a legacy attached to his last name, built on grit, consistency, and faith.
An Uncommon Work Ethic
David’s training reflects his mindset.
His days often begin before sunrise:
6 a.m. workouts
Gym sessions for cardio, abs, and light lifts
Afternoon cross-training through Pilates, hot yoga, boxing, or HYROX-style workouts
Every session has purpose. Every rep adds up.
Routine & Recovery
He keeps his pregame process simple and grounded:
Stretching
Prayer at the goalpost
Recovery is non-negotiable:
Normatec boots
Massage guns
Because availability is part of excellence.
Growth Through Loss
David faced his first true loss when he lost his papa, a moment that tested his faith deeply.
Instead of turning away, he leaned in, praying for peace and strengthening his relationship with God. That season reshaped him.
Mental Discipline
Mental toughness defines David’s approach.
To him, discipline means waking up at 5 a.m. when you don’t have to, because the goal matters that much.
When doubt crept in early in his kicking journey, especially when comparing himself to specialists with years of experience, he responded the only way he knows how:
By working.
Leadership Through Accountability
Teammates describe David as someone who will always lend a helping hand.
His definition of leadership is clear:
You must hold yourself accountable first before earning the privilege to lead others.
Under pressure, his message to himself stays simple:
You worked for this opportunity. Now go put it on display.
More Than Football
Family remains his anchor. His community continues to support him. And beyond the field, he values time with his brothers to keep their bond strong.
Football taught him a hard truth:
No one will feel sorry for you. Mental toughness is required.
If football weren’t the path, he’d be growing his t-shirt business, applying the same work ethic to entrepreneurship.
What’s Ahead
Short-term goal:
Remain the starting kicker at Alabama A&M
Long-term goals:
Earn All-SWAC Conference honors
Beyond accolades, David hopes his story sends a clear message:
It’s never too late to pursue a dream.
Rapid Fire
Favorite hype song: All There, by Jeezy
Role model: Chris Bumstead
Pre-game meal: Chicken breast, lettuce, rice, corn
Favorite quote: “A man shall reap what he sows.”
One word that describes him: Gritty
David Faulk IV didn’t follow the traditional route. He didn’t inherit a legacy.
He built one, through faith, discipline, and relentless effort.
That’s his why.
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