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DESTREHAN — This is the Nick Network Prep Report, and I’m here with Destrehan senior quarterback, #4, Class of 2023, Mr. Jai Eugene, Jr.

NNPR: First off Mr. Eugene Jr., tell us a little about Jai the classmate versus Jai the teammate?

Jai: First, I want people to know that outside the classroom, I take pride in showing people the ropes. Besides football, I am a very good, caring and understanding person. Basically saying, I’m good to know off the field. I feel people could forge a great relationship with me and I take pride in things of that nature.

NNPR: Growing up in the River Parishes, what are your fondest memories of living here?

Jai: The community, the very awesome community who takes pride in football, something I love doing. They show an amazing amount of gratitude when it comes down to football.

NNPR: Mr. Eugene, Jr. is a resident of St. Rose and a big pillar of this community. Let the fans know, Jai, who’s the best dancer? You or your dad?

Jai: I am the best dancer. I think I’m the best dancer in the whole family, honestly.

NNPR: Ok next question, what would be your favorite pastime; motorbikes, fishing, four wheelers, or fast cars?

Jai: Can I pick two? I would have to say fast cars and fishing. I love fishing with my Grampa Steve, and who doesn’t like fast cars?

NNPR: Who would be the most influential person or the person who most inspired you to become an athlete?

Jai: Probably my dad is the most influential. Since the beginning, he is who I look up to. God, first of all is inspiring me, but my family as well. My family has always been there for me, pushing me to limits I’d never thought I’d be able to reach.

NNPR: Playing for Coach Scott, tell us about the times he’s shown you more about how to be a leader on and off the field?

Jai: Playing for Coach Scott, he is a great coach. He produces inside school, too. He is an administrator in school and I think he’s done a great job with us, taken this program and taken it to new heights. He’s very similar to Nick Saban, in our opinion, because of his leadership and the time and effort he puts into football and other thing outside of football. So, I feel like he’s doing a great job and obviously, he’s got us to the ‘Dome.

NNPR: What advice would you give to a young kid that’s looking to play your position?

Jai: I’d say keep pushing and have a strong mindset. Thing are gonna happen, people are gonna come and go, you might lose a few relationships, but things are gonna change for the better.

NNPR: If you could name one teammate, that plays defense, who would you name that would replicate you and why?

Jai: I think it would be Lynard Harris. He has the mindset, the desire to be great and our competitiveness because we are very competitive.

NNPR: Another random question, listen carefully. Who cooks the best, mom or dad?

Jai: They might hate me for this one, but my dad! My dad cooks the best!

NNPR: We know that you are already a Tulane commit, look into the crystal ball and tell us where Jai Eugene will be in the next five years.

Jai: In the next five years, I plan to be happy. Wherever God takes me, I can’t really make that promise, but I see myself in a very positive place with my family behind me. That’s what I care about, family.

NNPR: So outside of football, if you never play football ever again, what would you be doing?

Jai: I plan to be a nurse, follow my mom’s footsteps. I watched my mom go through nursing school growing up and outside of the football field, I thought that was unique. You know, dealing with people, helping people and that’s also part of the reason I want to be at Tulane.

Well, there you have it folks, Mr. Jai Eugene Jr., quarterback, Division I football player. The Nick Network Prep Report would like to thank you for your time and we look forward to all the many great things you will accomplish in life. Good luck to Jai and his team, the Destrehan Fighting Wildcats to complete an undefeated season (13-0) and take home the LHSAA Non-Select Division I Football Championship. The game will be Friday, December 9, 2022 at 7 p.m. in the Superdome against the Ruston High School Bearcats.