The man, excited to see the neighborhood’s magnetic young athlete, promised he’d be following the Hough High football team’s season and more specifically, Mobley, the Huskies’ playmaking receiver and a native of one of Cornelius’ oldest communities.
“I know everyone around here,” says Mobley.
Though many of his teammates — or at least their parents — have previously called another state home, Mobley comes from a family that has lived in Smithville for generations. But while his roots are firmly established in one of the nation’s most transient areas, Mobley is a trailblazer of sorts. His cousins and sister graduated from North Meck High, 10 of them in all. Mobley started his high school career at North, too, but was reassigned to Hough last year as a junior.
“It was tough leaving my friends at North, but coming here, I adjusted really quick,” says Mobley.
He had little choice on the football field and basketball court — Hough needed him. He was one of a handful of Huskies who had varsity experience, and as a junior in a school with no seniors, Mobley was among those asked to provide veteran leadership. Now that he’s a senior, his leadership is even more evident.
“He’s very humble at his age, which is incredible and impressive to have as a football coach,” says Hough coach Bobby Collins. “Not a real vocal guy, but when it’s time for him to say something, the kids listen.”
Using his speed, agility and good hands, Mobley caught 37 passes for 415 yards and scored four touchdowns last year, while earning all-conference honors. And while Collins says he’s the Huskies’ top target, Mobley doesn’t really see it that way.
“Whenever I can help, I like to help,” he says.
Mobley also contributes significantly as a cornerback. His mentality on defense is to get off the field as quickly as possible — so he can get right back out there on offense.
“I like offense better,” he says with a laugh. “I like the ball in my hands.”
Mobley likes being counted on, and his teammates can’t help but have his back. Collins loves his cool demeanor and upbeat attitude.
“I like to have fun with everyone,” says Mobley.
That includes all those who have relocated to what was once a tiny town. Not all natives of a booming area embrace change, newly clogged roads or constant construction.
But Mobley has enjoyed watching the progress of his hometown.
“I never thought I’d be attending a high school in Cornelius,” he says. “Everything is branching out. I’m glad it’s doing that so more people can come, so there will be a better program at Hough and a better community.”
For Collins and his staff, it’s not about getting more numbers. Just give the Huskies some more Brandon Mobleys, and the rest will take care of itself.
