Mark Feldman
ASU Student Journalist

Brenden Goldman never stops

October 2, 2018 by Mark Feldman, Arizona State University


Goldman and his teammates run a play during practice. (Photo by Mark Feldman/AZPreps365)

Brenden Goldman wants Valley Christian to remember him as “someone who put all of himself into everything that he did.”

Mission accomplished. The senior offensive linemen and student body president has turned heads at the small, private school.

Football coach Kirk Sundberg recognizes Goldman has the leadership qualities needed in a football player and president of the school.

“He has a great presence and maturity. His character is very solid and he knows right from wrong,” Sundberg said. “Anytime I think of a leader, I think of a guy who does the right thing. He has a great smile and treats people well. He is truly a kind kid and it will let him go a long way.”

His peers respect him and listen to his advice, said student government advisor Robyn Dyer

“When Brenden speaks, others listen,” Dyer said. “He does not need to be the loudest person in the room. He allows others to shine.

“Brenden speaks up for what is right. And, he chooses his words carefully.”

As a senior, Goldman knows his time as a Trojan is coming to an end.

“I want people to look back and remember that this was a kid, player and student who gave his all academically, physically and mentally,” Goldman said.

Goldman’s family connections at Valley Christian drew him to the school.

His uncle is the basketball coach and his cousins attended Valley Christian. His older brother and step brother also went to Valley Christian.

From a young age, Goldman wanted to join the football team in high school and accomplish his dream of playing with his older brother.

“I have played since I was little. I played on a pee wee team for the city. Then my older brother Jacob played football and so I guess it was just like the idea that I have already played football and now I can play with him.” Goldman said.

Goldman also wanted to get involved off the field. “It is a really important part of school to do many extra curriculars.”

In the fall of his junior year, Goldman joined student council. He became the vice president of the junior class and also joined the Mission Two class which sent him to Romania for a missions trip.

“This was a big year for me with school involvement,” Goldman said.

Goldman loved it all and ran for president his senior year.

He ran against four others, one of them his best friend (Shane Dunn).

“We waited a weekend for the votes,” said Goldman. “It was a little fun and intimidating running against Shane because I want the best for him, but I also want to be president. It worked out cause he is currently the vice president.”

No one at Valley Christian will forget the president and offensive lineman.