Meet Gerald Jerome Hicks Jr | Scout and recruiter

We had the good fortune of connecting with Gerald Jerome Hicks Jr and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Gerald Jerome, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
The underlying motivation for launching my business centers around providing student-athletes, especially those transferring to collegiate institutions, with the chance to excel at the collegiate level. Simultaneously, I aim to support parents who are unfamiliar with the intricacies of scouting and recruiting, offering guidance throughout the process. Many parents are unable to dedicate time to tasks like handling FAFSA applications, let alone managing a highlight reel, initiating communication with coaches, or navigating the graduation process with counselors. Having personally gained immensely from the college experience, I believe that combining athletic prowess with academic pursuits can yield substantial benefits for student-athletes. The endeavor is also fueled by the recognition that numerous promising students often falter due to their limited awareness of the wide array of available educational institutions – a dilemma that affects both students and their parents. This is where X9 Scouting comes into play, enabling me to construct a vital bridge that spans the gap and offers much-needed assistance to aspiring student-athletes.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Allow me to open my heart and share a deeper insight into my art and business journey. Every facet of my work is driven by an unwavering passion to make a difference in the lives of student-athletes. There’s an indescribable joy that emanates from sitting down for interviews and witnessing the pure, unfiltered smiles that grace the faces of these young individuals. Equally heartwarming are the words of gratitude from parents who express their appreciation for the guidance I provide. It’s in those moments that I feel truly fulfilled.

Guiding these ambitious souls from diverse backgrounds is a privilege that humbles me. It’s not just about mentoring; it’s about becoming a dependable presence, a big brother, or a father figure, and ensuring they never feel alone on their journey.

Through the winding path that led me here, I learned that adversity is a teacher that visits us all. But it’s through relentless determination and resilience that we find our way out of the darkest corners. Nights turned into days and weekends were given up willingly, all to fulfill a promise I made to myself and those who believed in me. The ethos of “never give up” engraved in the X9 Scouting motto has become more than just words – it’s the lifeblood that courses through my efforts.

The genesis of my purpose was my mother, a steadfast beacon of strength. Witnessing her refusal to surrender, even when the odds were stacked against her, instilled in me an unyielding resolve. It’s this resolve that now propels me forward, guiding others as she once guided me.

I yearn to share the essence of my company’s mission with the world – it’s a mission that seeks to uplift academically, nurture mentally, and enrich spiritually. My heart aches for the undisciplined student-athletes who seek direction amidst the chaos, and for the parents who juggle the demands of work and life, often missing out on their children’s triumphs. I hold a special place in my heart for the athletes who’ve faced relentless ridicule and decided to retreat, defeated. These stories resonate with me because I, too, have overcome challenges and setbacks.

Ultimately, my purpose is clear – I want to be the guiding light for these souls, the reassuring presence that propels them forward. I want my art and business to be a testament to hope, perseverance, and the boundless potential within each of us. My goal is to honor the divine work of shaping lives and futures, impacting not just athletes but individuals who will carry the lessons learned into the world.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Day 1 – Beach Bliss and Cultural Immersion:

We’d kick off the trip by heading straight to the heart of Fort Lauderdale, Las Olas Boulevard, a vibrant hub of shopping Sawgrass Mall, Swap Shop Drive-In, the Flea Market, dining, and art galleries.
The first stop would naturally be the beach. We’d bask in the sun, dip our toes in the ocean, and soak in the laid-back beach vibes.
A leisurely drive along A1A would be a must. The mix of classic and modern cars would provide a unique backdrop to the diverse culture that Fort Lauderdale offers. It’s like experiencing a Caribbean paradise within the United States.
Drive threw Parkway and Sixtrunk to see family and find friends in Margate and Coral Springs.

Day 2 – Taste of the Islands:

Our culinary adventure would commence at Dutch Pot, located on 441 and Broward. We’d savor delicious oxtails with rice and peas, topped with extra gravy, and enjoy festival for a truly authentic taste of the Caribbean.
A stroll through the local Caribbean markets and shops would be the perfect way to immerse ourselves in the vibrant island culture.
We’d spend the afternoon driving through neighborhoods like Parkway, Margate, and Coral Springs, admiring the unique architecture and soaking in the local ambiance.

Day 3 – Downtown Exploration:

Downtown Fort Lauderdale would be our playground for the day. We’d explore the variety of entertainment options, from live music to art galleries.
Dining at one of the many waterfront restaurants would allow us to enjoy delicious food while taking in the breathtaking views of the city’s skyline.
A visit to the iconic Hard Rock Casino would be on the agenda for those who enjoy testing their luck.

Day 4 – Island Adventures:

We’d embark on an exciting day cruise to the Bahamas, exploring the stunning blue waters and white sandy beaches.
Back on land, we’d embrace the thrill of jet skiing, taking in the scenic views of the coastline.
To top off the day, we’d indulge in a yacht excursion, enjoying the luxury and beauty of Fort Lauderdale from a different perspective.
Throughout the week, we’d explore hidden gems, dine at local eateries, and perhaps stumble upon art festivals or live performances. Fort Lauderdale offers a diverse range of experiences, and we’d make sure to make the most of each moment. From the sun-soaked beaches to the bustling downtown scene, every day would be a new adventure filled with excitement and discovery.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
In this shoutout, I want to wholeheartedly honor and celebrate my remarkable wife. Her incredible ability to manage our family’s needs while pursuing her education is truly something to be admired. I am constantly filled with pride as I witness her unwavering commitment to both our family and her personal growth.

What sets her apart is her refusal to take shortcuts in anything she does. She approaches life with a dedication that’s truly inspiring. Her aspirations extend far beyond herself; she yearns for a better world and actively works towards making a positive impact on the lives of others.

As a mother to our son, she radiates warmth and love, providing him with an unwavering foundation of care and support. In her role as a wife, her commitment and love know no bounds. She is the anchor that grounds our family, a steadfast presence through all life’s challenges.

Her influence in my life has been transformational. She consistently challenges me to push my boundaries, strive for greatness, and never settle for mediocrity. Since the moment our stories intertwined, she has been a driving force of positive change. Her unwavering support, unconditional love, and unwavering dedication have molded me into a better version of myself.

So, as I give this shoutout, I want the world to know that my successes are intrinsically tied to her steadfast presence. Her love has shaped my journey, and her unwavering belief in me has given me the strength to overcome obstacles and reach for the stars. This isn’t just my story; it’s our story – one of growth, partnership, and boundless love.

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