Jarret Romanello, The St. Lucie Post
May 9, 2021
This Mother’s Day, two Florida men are headed north to make their mom’s dream come true. Their journey started on youth football fields in Martin & Broward County and will continue Sundays this fall in the NFL at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ.
Raised by a family of first responders, Elijah Moore, 21, began playing youth football for the Davie Broncos, and his work ethic immediately set him apart. “He works harder than anyone I know and deserves nothing less than greatness,” Elijah’s mom Elisa Poux says. Moore, a four-star recruit from St. Thomas Aquinas High School, played for Ole Miss before being selected by the Jets with the 34th pick in the 2nd round of last month’s NFL Draft.
Venetia Johnson-Lynch raised her son Jamien Sherwood, 21, as a single mother in Jensen Beach and encouraged him to play football. As he progressed through Jensen Beach High School and Auburn University, Venetia met other young men vying for the chance to play professional football. “Many are called, but few are chosen. I am a big fan of anyone working to make their dreams come true.” Jamien was selected in the 5th rounds by the Jets.
Moore, a wide receiver, and Sherwood, a linebacker, grew up with a community’s support and their mother’s love. Venetia tells other mothers always to support their kids and encourage them to pursue their dreams. “I am so proud of my son and all the other young men that made it to the NFL,” Venetia tells The St. Lucie Post.
Their years of hard work have paid off, and now both moms can enjoy watching their sons as New York Jets.
“I’m the happiest mother ever,” says Elisa Poux.