He was a two-time team captain in football and track, and during his senior year he became the captain of the basketball team as well.

Inspired by his brother’s success in football, Brian looked for his own opportunity to stand out at the collegiate level.

“Growing up, I’ve been surrounded by great athletes in my family,” Brian said. “Seeing [Chris] at Stanford and how he’s doing extremely well, I’m proud of him. I’ve just come out here, trying to make a name for myself. I just try to work hard in practice [so] it shows in the games.”

Since arriving on campus, Brian has once again found the balance between academics and athletics and he acknowledges that he was able to transition to the unique environment of Ivy League football because of his father’s emphasis on school.

“My dad stressed education way before sports,” Brian said. “He’s one of those really influential people in my life. I look up to him.”

Soon members of the Crimson may begin looking up to Brian.

The rookie has already begun to make an impact with the football team, grabbing two first-half interceptions in Harvard’s victory over Cornell last Saturday.

“Brian is a very determined guy,” his mother, Eva, said. “He hates to lose at anything. He’s a fighter; he will do whatever it takes [to win].”

“The transition has gone pretty well,” Brian added. “It’s still a big jump [from high school to college]. I’m starting to get the hang of things, get the plays down, watching film, [and] talking to the coaches. It’s going pretty well right now.”

Playing with preseason All-American Derrick Barker, All-Ivy League safety Collin Zych, and reigning Ivy League Defensive Rookie of the Year Matt Hanson should help Brian continue to improve as he hopes to help the Crimson stay undefeated in Ivy play this season.

“Derrick Barker, Barnes, Zych, Matt Hanson, all of the upperclassmen [in the] secondary have just been outstanding,” Brian said. “They’ve just helped me out through all the practices, all the lifting, the film, [and] getting better. They’ve just been there for me like I was their brother. I really appreciate that.”

3,000 miles away from home and among such a cohesive group of players, Brian has found a new athletic family. And if his parents get their wish, it will only be part of the success he finds at Harvard.