Those close to him know him as “Champ.” Southside High senior center Latrell Richardson earns that nickname every time he steps out on the football field.

During practice and at game time, Richardson can be found in the center of the Panthers’ offensive line. Other times, the 5-foot-10, 305-pounder can be found in the middle of the Panthers’ huddle, leading his teammates in prayer and helping them through life’s tough battles.

“I try to keep it real, let them know that God is everything you need,” Richardson said. “I want them to know that He will help you out no matter what you’re going through.”

His words are those of motivation and inspiration. But just his presence alone on the gridiron makes Richardson an encouragement.

The 18-year-old’s life took a turn for the worse three years ago. After going to the hospital suffering chest pains, Richardson he was diagnosed with pancreantitis, a potentially fatal disease in which the pancreas could burst, filling the valves to the heart with fluid and cutting off the blood flow to the body.

Richardson was placed on daily medication and advised by doctors not to play football. Still, he chooses to ignore those warnings and do what he loves.

“Doctors told me playing football isn’t a good thing,” Richardson said. “I don’t even worry about it. This is my dream, to play football. I let God handle it.”

“Latrell’s like a big brother to these kids. He’s definitely an inspiration for me,” Southside coach Chris Raymond said. “There are days I come out here and I’m not feeling well, and I pull through it.

“Latrell being out here lets the kids know that if you’re going through something difficult, you can make it through.”

Richardson realizes that one sharp hit to the pancreas could mean the end of his life. But still he plays on.

Richardson’s love for football and ability to look danger in the face went to another level last week when he moved to fullback and scored his first career touchdown, a bruising 4-yard run up the middle against Livingston.

“Oh, it was exciting to score my first touchdown,” he said. “My dream has always been to play fullback. Coach Raymond told me to seize the opportunity because we only have one chance to run the play.”

It appears Richardson will have more than one more chance to score another touchdown. Raymond said Wednesday that since his backup center is injured, he would likely start the team’s third string center this week against Bibb County and move Richardson to fullback.

Richardson’s football career, however, doesn’t just hinge on one play, one run, or one score. Richardson said that he would like to take his game to the next level and play college football.

“I’ve been thinking about that or playing college baseball,” he said. “I don’t worry about my condition. The more you worry about it, the worse it will get. I just give it to God and let Him take care of the rest.”