STATESBORO – From walk-on to playmaker, defensive back Tracy Hill Jr.'s journey has been defined by faith and resilience. 
 
After graduating from high school, Hill took an unconventional route by spending a year at Georgia Knights Prep Academy. He competed during the Fall semester, using the experience to grow before joining the Eagles.
 
"One of my high school coaches suggested I go there – not just for football, but also to improve academically," Hill said. "It really prepared me physically and mentally and helped me grow into my position. My senior year in high school was my first time playing it, so the transition was tough. At prep school, I was able to sharpen my technique and go up against a lot of talented players who ended up at big-time schools. Competing against them pushed me to get better."
 
Hill found himself at a crossroads after high school.
 
"Honestly, I wasn't planning on playing anymore," Hill said. "But my high school coach, my mom and my peers kept supporting me, even when I wasn't sure I wanted to keep going. Their encouragement really helped me, and that's where it all started."
 
After trying out for Georgia Southern's football team, Hill earned a spot as a walk-on starting as a member of the scout team, fulfilling a lifelong dream.
 
"It was amazing," Hill said. "I've got a couple of guys here from my hometown. Getting the chance to play alongside them while living out my childhood dream is really special."
 
Just last season, Hill was nominated for the Burlsworth Award, given to the nation's top walk-on, a recognition that highlighted his dedication and talent on a national stage.
 
He has started 13 games and counting while appearing in 29 contests overall.
 
"It's been a really good journey," Hill said. "There have been a lot of ups and downs and a lot of emotions, but the biggest thing is that I've grown in my faith. Since I got here, I've turned my life over to Jesus, and that has helped me in every way – mentally and physically. Knowing that I'm doing all things for Him and not for anyone else has made all the difference."
 
Last season, Hill delivered a highlight-reel play against South Carolina State, snagging an interception and returning it 60 yards for his first career Pick Six.
 
"That was one of my proudest moments in college football," Hill said. "Coming from where I started as a walk-on and being able to take advantage of every opportunity made it really special."
 
Head coach Clay Helton may be known for his football résumé, but it's his character that players gravitate toward and rally behind.
 
"It's not just about his football system, it's about who he is as a man," Hill said. "He's a strong encourager and a strong supporter. He always does what's best for our team. When you talk to him, you know he wants the best for you. He leans on us, and we lean on him as our leader."
 
Helton hasn't been the only influence on Hill's journey. Defensive backs coach Darius Safford has also played a pivotal role in mentoring him as an athlete and a young man.
 
"He's developed me not only as a football player, but as a man," Hill said. "A lot of coaches focus strictly on football, but he focuses on everything. He's one of the best teachers I've been around – teaching us not just about the game, but about life, using his own experiences. He recently lost his mom, and I lost my dad at a young age, so he's been someone I can lean on, not just when things are going well, but in the tough moments too."
 
Looking back on his journey, Hill stresses the importance of consistency to young players who are in the same position he once was.
 
"Be consistent and be the same guy every day," Hill said. "It's not always going to be easy, but you have to lean on your faith and keep growing. Go to practice, give your best, don't skip reps – those things will catch up to you. Even being on the scout team is valuable because it puts you up against the first team and helps you improve."
 
Hill's message to fans was simple: keep showing up.
 
"I just hope they continue to come out and support," Hill said. "There are always going to be ups and downs, but we're growing every day as a team and as a family. We can't do it without them. The noise they bring makes opponents nervous, and if we can lean on them while they lean on us, through the good and the bad, we're going to get where we want to be."
 
Game Four will be played at Paulson Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 20, at 7 p.m. ET. Tune in on ESPN+ or the Georgia Southern Sports Network.