Not many children know where they want to go to college in elementary school, but third-grader Tanner Hull knew exactly what college he wanted to attend -- the University of Missouri.
Almost 10 years later, he made his dream come true, enrolling at the University of Missouri with a spot on the Mizzou football team.
Hull, now a senior linebacker for the team, prides himself on his relentless effort and undying determination. Having played football in grade school and continuing on to play in high school the obvious next step, in Hull's mind, was college football. After communicating with Coach Andy Hill in high school, Hull walked on his freshman year and has been with the team since.
"It is definitely tough to be a walk on," Hull said. "It is a different experience than all the other guys have. I try to lead a lot through example. I'm not a super vocal guy but I work really hard and try to set an example for the younger walk-ons to show them that this is what you need to do to get to this position."
With football being such a huge part of his life growing up, it is not surprising that Hull's number, 32, came from a significant football memory. While he wore the number 40 all throughout high school, Hull donned the number 32 uniform in the eighth grade, the year that he and his team were the undefeated city champs.
Hull showcased his athleticism, playing both sides of the ball in high school since he attended a relatively small school. While he played almost every position on defense, his favorite position has always been linebacker, the spot he currently plays at Mizzou. He is under the instruction of linebackers' coach DeMontie Cross, who is a "tough, tough coach," according to Hull.
Hull describes himself as fortunate to have played under Coach Odom during Odom's tenure as the defensive coordinator and linebackers' coach. While Odom has stepped into a different role as head coach, Hull believes Odom brings a focused mindset to the team and has really brought the team together as a unit.
As a senior, Hull has numerous fond memories of the both the football team and Mizzou itself, but he said nothing tops being back-to-back SEC East Champions. The games and the celebrations were unforgettable for the walk-on from Kansas City, who dreamed of playing college football.
When he is not on the field or in the weight room with his fellow teammates, Hull can be found working as a strength and conditioning intern with the Mizzou wrestling team.
"They are tough and super competitive," Hull said. "All they do is compete with each other all the time, in the weight room or on the mat and I love working with them."
Upon graduation, Hull hopes to find a graduate assistant position as a strength coach at a university. He strives to stay in the sports industry either as a strength coach or as a doctor specializing in orthopedics so he can help players plagued by shoulder or knee injuries get back on the field. No matter what career he decides on, Hull stays focused and committed to any goal he sets.
"I'm the type of guy that speaks things into existence," Hull said. "I said it, so that locked me on to having to have to do it to hold up to my word. That has been my biggest motivation in life."