Commitment Report: Shad Kebaso (2017)
Harding quarterback and defensive back Shad Kebaso is a walking example of the American dream. He was born in Kenya, and as a child, his father moved to the United States to attempt to build a life here. When his…
Access all of Prep Redzone
Subscribe for access to all premium articles and rankings.
SubscribeHarding quarterback and defensive back Shad Kebaso is a walking example of the American dream. He was born in Kenya, and as a child, his father moved to the United States to attempt to build a life here. When his father felt he had established himself in America, he brought his family – including ten-year-old Shad – to Minnesota.
Kebaso didn't play football until middle school. After a successful career at Harding, he earned a college scholarship.
It didn't take long for the senior to decide to accept.
“I received an offer from Southwest Minnesota State,” Kebaso said. “When I went down to visit the campus I liked the small classes. I like that I have a chance to play right away.”
Like in real estate his college decision came down – in part – to location, location, location. It was far enough away from home, but not so far as to prevent his family from following his career.
Kebaso also liked the family atmosphere at SWMS, liked the direction of the program and felt the defensive scheme was something he was already comfortable with.
“Southwest wants me to play the position I want to play in college and will give me a chance to play right away.”
The Mustangs see Kebaso as a corner – a position of need – in 2017. They only have two defensive backs who saw much time coming back.
“I have a really good opportunity to play right away.”
The Mustangs' coaching staff liked how versatile he can be.
“They like that I can play five or six positions. They like the fact that I played quarterback. They think playing quarterback will help me play defensive back. I can read the receivers; I can read the quarterback and see where he wants to go with his throw.”
Kebaso said the SWMS coaches want him to put on ten pounds before the season starts, so the senior decided not to play basketball his senior year and has been focusing on the weight room.
For someone who played soccer in Africa as a kid to a young man who has earned a scholarship to play football and attend college in the United States – Shad Kebaso is a perfect example of the American dream.
