Former Kean University Football Player Honors Deceased Parents with Jersey Number Change
UNION, N.J. — Tymere Briggs-Perkins, a recent graduate of Kean University, made a heartfelt gesture to remember his parents who tragically passed away during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a freshman, Briggs-Perkins chose to wear the number 90 on his football jersey, symbolizing his mother’s birthday. However, after losing both parents just four months apart, he changed his jersey number to 7 to honor them.
Briggs-Perkins explained the significance behind the number 7, stating that Sunday, the seventh day of the week, held a special meaning to his parents. They had told him they would be coming home on Sundays, but unfortunately, that did not happen. Despite his profound loss, Briggs-Perkins showed incredible resilience and determination to fulfill his parents’ wishes.
In January, Briggs-Perkins graduated from Kean University with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. Despite overcoming COVID-19 himself, he managed to overcome the tremendous grief of losing both parents at the young age of 20 and 21. Reflecting on his achievement, he expressed pride in fulfilling his parents’ last wish.
Throughout his time at Kean, Briggs-Perkins excelled academically and received several awards. He made the Dean’s List for four semesters and was recognized as a Bridge to Success honoree for five semesters. At the Kean Football Banquet, he received both the Jamal Reynolds Heart & Soul Award and the Hawley Waterman Award, which is a rare feat for a single player.
Coach Dan Garrett, head coach of the Kean football team, praised Briggs-Perkins for his resilience and positive attitude during the challenging period of losing both parents. Despite the remote learning environment due to COVID-19, Briggs-Perkins remained connected with the team and inspired those around him.
Looking ahead, Briggs-Perkins plans to pursue a career in IT cybersecurity. He aspires to become a cybersecurity analyst and engineer, combining his passion for technology with his commitment to protecting digital systems. With a strong determination and support from mentors like Stan Mierzwa, a managing assistant director at the Center for Cybersecurity at Kean, Briggs-Perkins is poised to achieve great success in his chosen field.
Mierzwa, who taught Briggs-Perkins in a cyber policy class, commended his resilience, inquisitive nature, and dedication to both academics and athletics. He expressed confidence that Briggs-Perkins has the capability to accomplish any goal he sets his mind to.
Briggs-Perkins is grateful for the love and support he received from his late mother, and he believes she would be proud of the direction his life is taking. By pursuing his passion and making the most out of his opportunities, he is honoring the memory of his parents and creating a bright future for himself.