Knightly News

“Centenary feels like home to me.” Joshua Godfrey ’25

Joshua Godfrey recently celebrated the next step in his football career with an announcement that he’ll play for Centenary College. He says the choice was easy. “It’s a small campus, similar to Episcopal, from the architecture, to the trees, to the small classes, commitment to excellence, and caring community – it really reminds me of Episcopal…and it’s not too far from home,” says Joshua. “The facilities are great and the program is on the rise. I’m excited to be part of that resurgence.”

In addition to having a familiar feeling, the school is also a family tradition for Joshua. “This opportunity means even more to me because I’m following in the footsteps of my uncle, Trey Godfrey, an Episcopal Athletics Hall of Famer,” he says. “He’s always been an incredible role model for me, along with my other uncle, Jimmy Williams. While I wish Uncle Jimmy were here to see me, I know he’s incredibly proud of how far I’ve come.”

Joshua has come a long way, and he says his football journey started a little later than most. He only played one full season of varsity football and one season of JV and varsity. “My background in wrestling for three years helped me develop the strength and discipline I needed to transition to football, and that experience has shaped my mindset,” he says. “I’m excited to take this next step, not only to compete at the next level but to continue growing and developing both on and off the field. This is just the beginning, and I can’t wait to see how far I can go.” 

Head Football Coach Travis Bourgeois praises Joshua as very coachable and always eager to learn. “He is a great teammate and always positive,” says Bourgeois. “He started every game at nose guard and usually took on two or three blockers, opening plays for our linebackers to make. He will continue to get stronger and learn more about the game over the next four years.”

Joshua loves the brotherhood football provides, and he offers the following advice to classmates with a goal to continue the journey. “My advice would be to make smart choices and think long-term,” he says. “Once you get to high school, your reputation follows you, and one bad decision can have lasting consequences.”

Joshua’s long-term goals include studying mechanical engineering or business management. He’s always dreamed of owning his own car shop or working in NASCAR. In the meantime, he’ll likely stay busy with making the world a better place. Joshua volunteers more than 100 hours a year. He is actively involved in the Baton Rouge Youth Coalition and a member of the Teen Group of the Baton Rouge Chapter of Jack and Jill of America. He is a member of Episcopal’s African American History Club, has wrestled for three years and was a member of the swim team for two years.

No doubt the future is bright for Joshua as he takes this next step. Please join us in wishing him well at Centenary.

The Episcopal School of Baton Rouge 2025-2026 application is now available! ​For more information on the application process, to schedule a tour, or learn more about the private school, contact us at [email protected] or 225-755-2685.