Kobe Delima, Newberry Panthers reign over Dixie County Bears, 56-12

-- Dixie County, FL. Written By: Kevin Smalls

This week, we highlight Newberry Panthers student-athlete, Kobe Delima.

Delima is a Newberry, Florida native, and is the son of Latasha Johnson. He is a junior RB/CB for the Newberry Panthers football program. He’s also the starting pitcher for the baseball team, and is on the Panthers basketball team.

Most of all, Delima is a genuinely good person who works hard on and off the field, and strives to keep a positive mindset in his everyday life.

“He’s a special talent,” said first-year head coach and Newberry alum Edward Johnson.

Coincidentally, when Delima was asked who inspired him as an athlete, he said “Tim Tebow.”

“He was special and he was a leader,” Delima said. “He led his team to anything they did.”

“When he goes, the team goes,” said Panthers RB Coach Xavier Woods.

That would be the case in Friday’s game, as Delima exploded for two quick touchdowns against the Dixie County Bears. He returned the opening kickoff, and then rushed for about 70-yards on the first play of the Panthers following possession to give the Panthers an early 14-0 lead. Barely five minutes came off the game clock.

The Panthers never looked back and moved to 7-1 on the season after a convincing 56-12 win.

Coming into the game, Delima rushed for 675 yards and nine touchdowns. He finished this game with 100+ yards and two touchdowns.

He takes pride in working hard and improving his game each week—and that starts in the classroom, weight room and then the field.

“If you don’t put in the work, then the results not gon’ show,” he said.

Delima said he is not the typical vocal leader, but he leads by example through his actions. His attitude is contagious, and through his play, he’s able to set a standard for his teammates.

“Those are my brothers and I have to make sure we all work hard, play our role and stay positive,” Delima said.

Coach Woods feels that he’s one selfless guy.

“It’s not all about Kobe,” Coach Woods said. “A couple weeks ago against Taylor County, he wanted to sit out so other players had the opportunity to play.”

As humble and unselfish as he can be, Delima is undoubtedly one of the best backs in FHSAA Class-1A. He possesses a laser-focus mentality that will continue to lead him down the road of success.

Delima lives by the quote “Stay Positive and Stay Humble.”

His goal is to attend college on a football scholarship and he is well on his way.