Donovan Isom credits his experience with bringing a program back to life for the opportunity he now has to extend his own playing career.

Isom, who quarterbacked the Texas Wesleyan Rams in 2018 and 2019, helped revive the program after it had been dormant for more than 75 years. Now, he's the starting quarterback for the Berlin Rebels in Germany as a professional player.

"I felt it was a great opportunity for me to excel in football and also to earn my masters degree in education," he said of his choice to come to Texas Wesleyan. "Because of what I learned at Texas Wesleyan I'm playing pro football and excelling off the field as well."

Much like his time with the Rams, Isom said he has a great support system who believes in him.

"My experience here has been a blessing," he said. "We have a new offense and we're building something special for this year. I'm growing as a quarterback and a leader here."

He's also enjoying the experience of learning to live in another country, he said. He's developed a fondness for Germany.

"It's different, but a good different. It's very simple here in Germany and I like that. I love the culture and it's growing to be one of my homes," he said.

As a quarterback, being one step ahead is always a plus. Isom takes the same approach to life.

"I would love to do more with myself because I feel like I can do many things. I would love to teach after football but we'll get to that later on in life," he said.

And though they didn't win many games, Isom feels he and his Rams teammates set the stage for the success the team is currently enjoying.

"First I want to say Coach (Joe) Prud'homme is one of the greatest men I have ever been coached by. When I first talked to him I knew he was going to do special things at Texas Wesleyan, whether it was with me or the future," Isom said. "I didn't have the results I would have liked to have, but I do believe my last year we were stepping in the right direction as a program. I wished I could have played one more year for him. I miss him and the staff. They're amazing people and I would do it all again with them.

"The foundation they are planting there is built for players to succeed and everyone needs to buy into the process. I'm glad I was able be a part of that process and I can't wait to see what the Rams will do in future."

And though he's far away, he will be watching, he said. And he's proud to be representing the Rams to another part of the globe.

"Shout out to all of the students, faculty and all of the student-athletes at Texas Wesleyan for making the university a great place to be," he said. "I hope everyone has a great year. Go Rams!"