Rose Hill senior running back and safety Kai Kirchhoff-Jones has built his varsity football career on values that started at home and grew under Friday night lights. Kirchhoff-Jones, a Rose Hill High School varsity player, said his biggest inspiration begins with his family.
“My mom inspires me to be the best version of myself everyday. She has taught me how important respect, kindness, honesty and never giving up is even when life gets difficult. My stepdad inspires me on the field and he pushes me to work harder and believes in me.”
On the field, Kirchhoff-Jones lines up on both sides of the ball, a challenge he embraces.
“I am a running back and safety. The most difficult thing about being a running back is making the right decision in a split second while protecting the ball and getting hits all while trying to gain positive yardage.”
He still remembers the moment he first proved he belonged under the varsity lights.
“My favorite memory from a game is my first time playing on varsity my Freshman year and making a big tackle.”
Now a senior, Kirchhoff-Jones said the game has given him more than highlights.
“Athletics has taught me how to work as a team and discipline. I’ve learned to work hard even when things are difficult and to stay committed to my goals and support others.”
He said the bonds built in the locker room matter as much as the scoreboard.
“I enjoy the friendships and memories that I have made in the last 3 years. I love how my team really comes together on game days and how we fight to the end, win or lose.”
His pregame routine reflects that focus and discipline.
“My pregame routine is listening to music, going over plays mentally and prayer.”
Off the field, Kirchhoff-Jones enjoys history class with his favorite teacher, Mr. Barger, and spends free time going to movies, fishing, playing video games and lifting weights. He said he admires the precision of dominant programs like Andale and appreciates Rose Hill’s Fall Festival each October.
Kirchhoff-Jones also values giving back. He said the team stays active at the senior center, volunteers during the season and takes part in an “Adopt-a-Little” program mentoring junior football players, including teammate Levi McLaughlin, whom he calls “a dedicated hard worker and helps maintain team morale and an overall great teammate and friend.”
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