Gabe Bigbee wrapped up his senior year at Patriot High School this past spring in Nokesville, Virginia. The 2023 graduate finished his career as the school's all-time leader in receiving with 177 catches, 3,483 all-purpose yards and 36 touchdowns. Bigbee put a stamp on his senior season, racking up 62 catches, 37 rushes for 1,716 all-purpose yards and 18 touchdowns. Gabe got it done in the classroom as well, finishing his four years with a 4.0 grade point average.
Following his senior season, the talented receiver/defensive back would originally commit to play at Slippery Rock University in Pennsylvania- but would later sign to play at Shepherd University in West Virginia. He joins a sizeable number of other Prince William County products (8) in the 2023 Rams' recruiting class- including his former quarterback at Patriot, Sam Fernandez. I recently got a chance to catch up with Gabe and let him reflect on his time at Patriot while looking ahead to being a collegiate athlete at Shepherd.
1. Favorite sports teams growing up?
Growing up through today I have been a fan of The Baltimore Ravens, The Atlanta Braves, and a trio of basketball teams: the Cavs, Heat, and Lakers. I became a fan of these teams mainly because of LeBron James and my admiration for him.
2. Favorite athletes? What about them inspired you?
LeBron James is unquestionably my all-time favorite athlete. It's interesting because he's a basketball player but he embodies the values and beliefs that resonate deeply with me. He exemplifies integrity, never jeopardizes his family or shows disrespect. He also acknowledges that his endeavors on Earth are part of a greater plan set by God.
3. You're listed as playing receiver but also defensive back. What other sports did you play growing up?
In my early years, my main focus revolved around football and basketball. I've also dabbled in rugby, track and wrestling.
4. When did you have to make the decision to commit to just football?
The decision to commit solely to football came during the winter of sixth grade. It wasn't just my decision but my father's as well. He thought I should devote all my energy to football and not play basketball in the winter.
5. Favorite things to do off the field to unwind?
Off the field, I find relaxation in the simplest pleasures. Spending quality time with loved ones, cooking, and nurturing my faith all give me a sense of peace. I'm content with the basics of life as long as it focuses on family, my faith and sports aligning harmoniously.
6. You started at Patriot in the fall of 2019, right before all the pandemic madness began. What were the biggest differences you noticed before/after? What was the biggest challenge for you as a student athlete going forward?
The most noticeable difference in regards to football before and after COVID-19 was the impact on my passion for it. Such as with many other athletes, the pandemic disrupted the recruiting process and reduced my collegiate opportunities. As a result, I intensified my efforts once the recruiting landscape was affected. I recognized that there were fewer opportunities available and felt compelled to work even harder.
7. Plenty of great players have come out of Patriot, including yourself and many of your teammates. How would you describe the football culture there?
Coach Powell is one of the greatest offensive minds I've ever met. He's a players' coach who truly understands how to read the field and utilize talent. Coach Jenkins is a true football mind with NFL experience. He also taught me lots of wisdom and helped me grow more as a man of God. Coach Finn helped me through many struggles of life and helped coach us to our best record in Patriot history.
I'm grateful for my time at Patriot as it taught me valuable lessons about facing challenges and channeling pain into passion.
Gabe Bigbee was an offensive dynamo at Patriot, helping his team (44.9 points per game) to an 11-2 record in 2022
8. As a senior, did you feel added pressure to deliver, or did it come naturally with the territory?
My senior year carried added pressure without a doubt. It often occupied my thoughts but turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Celebrating each victory became a cherished memory and the higher expectations made the results even more joyful.
9. I was at the biggest PWC game of the season versus Battlefield when it was literally standing room only. Can you describe what the environment was like for that game, especially on the road?
The energy in the air that night was almost indescribable, but very unique. Playing in front of thousands of passionate spectators on the opponent's home turf is an experience that most people only dream of.
10. How did you find ways to balance academics with athletics?
Balancing academics and athletics came naturally to me. From a young age, my parents emphasized the importance of intellectual growth and prepared me for the realities of life. They taught me that not everyone achieves their aspirations, so having a strong academic foundation is crucial. I genuinely enjoyed learning and considered it a privilege. Managing time and prioritizing effectively is key to succeeding both on the field and in the classroom.
11. Proudest moment of your senior season? Also what was your proudest moment in academics?
As an athlete, I take pride in witnessing the growth of my teammate Colton Kershaw. We pushed each other daily in intense practices to be better. I see lots of similarities in our games which reinforces my belief in his bright future. He has two more years to showcase his immense talent. Academically, I'm proud to have graduated with a 4.0 GPA.
12. What teachers at Patriot left a lasting impact on you?
Ms. Nichols was one of the kindest and most compassionate souls on this planet. She gave me countless amounts of advice. Ms. Shipman truly loves her students and will do everything in her power to make sure you succeed. Mr. Demharter and Ms. Moore led a great leadership class. Both guided me on my path to succeed as an athlete and student.
Gabe (right) on signing day at Patriot
13. What was your mindset like before the Freedom game?
My mindset was unchanged compared to any other game. We knew it would be the toughest challenge of the year. It was win and go home- and unfortunately we went home. Shoutout to Coach O and the boys at Freedom- they're in good hands.
14. Who was the best defender you went up against?
Amare Campbell from Unity Reed (now at North Carolina) stands out as the most formidable defender we faced. He wreaked havoc in the front eight and rightfully belongs in the top tier of defenders.
15. Has any DB ever called you out in a game or camp. If so, how did you respond?
In games, no. They knew better. But at camp, some did- and it didn't end well for them. Such behavior is childish and risky. Camps are meant to prove yourself. Calling players out comes off as petty. It's best to focus on one's personal growth and stay in your lane.
16. Shepherd recruited heavier than ever in the DMV this year, especially in PWC. You had originally committed to Slippery Rock. When did they appear on your radar as a possible place to play?
Shepherd caught my attention in the beginning of the year. They had been recruiting Cole Scott- now a standout linebacker for the Rams- during his senior season. Their interest in me grew from there, and I was fully aware of Shepherd as a destination to continue my football journey.
Shepherd recruited heavily in Prince William County in 2022: Jayden Perez (OL), Brodie Carroll (LB) & Damier Minkah (DB) out of Battlefield, Sam Fernandez (DB) and Gabe Bigbee (WR) from Patriot, Tyler Nix (OL) and Will Johnson (DB) out of Brentsville and Nigel Burke (DB) from Osbourn
Their track record of success heavily influenced my decision to go there. Having the opportunity to play for a successful team is a blessing.
18. What did it mean to you to see RG3 show up at Shepherd prior to the draft to look at 2021 Harlon Hill winner Tyson Bagent?
Incredible. It was reassuring to see the established connections to the NFL that Shepherd has, especially for the turnout at Shepherd's pro day.
19. The Rams also had 3 other players sign as undrafted free agents following the 2023 NFL Draft (Ronnie Brown, Joey Fisher & Brian Walker). Has that added more motivation for you?
That definitely added motivation for me. I aspire to follow in their footsteps and contribute to the team's success just like they did.
Shepherd looked to reload after a season that saw four players (a DII record) sign as undrafted free-agents following the NFL draft: QB Tyson Bagent (Chicago), RB Ronnie Brown (Tampa Bay), RT Joey Fisher (San Francisco) and TE Brian Walker (Baltimore)
(image via @SURamsfootball on Twitter)
20. What impression did Ernie McCook and his coaching staff leave on you after meeting them?
Meeting Coach McCook. Coach Kellar and Coach Wright left a lasting impression on me and my family. It was evident Shepherd values the importance of a close-knit community and strives for greatness. They hold everyone accountable for their responsibilities within the program.
21. After visiting Shepherdstown, a city rich in history.....what was your favorite part about it?
I particularly enjoyed the passion for football that permeates the community. Not only the students but the people of Shepherdstown genuinely care about the players' success and well-being. It meant a lot to me.
22. What are your goals for your freshman season, not only on the field but in the classroom?
I aim to become an academic All-American. On the field, the goal is simple: earn a starting position and contribute to the team's success. Whether it's on offense or special teams- I want to have a positive impact on the game and fulfill my role. I want to take care of my responsibilities and do whatever my coaches ask of me.
For more on Gabe, follow him on Twitter @BigbeeGabe
For more on Shepherd football, visit their website and follow them on Twitter @SURamsfootball.
