ABOUT US
“DESPITE ALL OBSTACLES, HE SMILED IN THE FACE OF GOD.”
Neiron Arrod Ball was born on August 20, 1992, and passed away on September 10, 2019.
He was a student at the Butts County School District where his favorite teacher was Mrs. Claire Zant. Mrs. Zant was pivotal in helping Neiron during the difficult time when he lost both parents by the age of 9 years old. A team of loving relatives worked together to raise him and ensure his success.
Neiron was an honor student and member of the BETA Club throughout his secondary career. He was a three-sport athlete. He ran track, played basketball, and excelled at football.
Neiron graduated from Jackson High School in 2010.
He received a full athletic scholarship to the University of Florida (UF) and graduated early from Jackson High School, enrolling early at UF in January 2010.
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His greatest accomplishment was his character and courage. He wore a warm smile on his face and was a caring individual. During his time at UF he received the following prestigious awards:​
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Chris Patrick Courage Award
Forest K. Ferguson Award
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The Chris Patrick Courage Award is given to the player who, after injury, demonstrates outstanding commitment and dedication in the athletic training room. In 2012, Ball suffered from AVM and was sidelined for one season. Post his recovery, he was able to get back on the field for the Gators. Just one season later, Ball was honored with the Christ Patrick Courage Award in 2013.
The Forest K. Ferguson Award is presented annually in memory of one of the University of Florida’s greatest athletes. The award is given in the form of a trophy, which remains in permanent possession at the school. The recipient goes to the Gators’ senior football player who displays outstanding leadership, character, and courage. Selected by the coaching staff (Will Muschamp, D.J. Durkin, Kurt Roper, Brian White, etc.), Neiron was honored with this award in 2014.​
He was a linebacker at the University of Florida from 2010-2015. After completing his Bachelor of Science degree, he entered the 2015 National Football League Draft. The Oakland Raiders drafted him in the 5th Round (#161).
Neiron played for the Oakland Raiders from 2015-2017.
The Legacy Continues
After a year-long battle to overcome the obstacles of hospitalization, Neiron transitioned on September 10, 2019.
His sister, Dr. Natalie Myricks, authored, 'Neiron Is Just Like Me', a children's book in Nerion's honor to inspire children to pursue excellence no matter what. She also established this scholarship in honor of her baby brother to be a beacon of hope for student-athletes who smile in the face of God, against all odds in their life.
We hope the recipient(s) of this scholarship will continue Neiron’s legacy by working hard and defying the odds.
'Hard work pays off. Neiron never lost a game, he just ran out of time.'
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The Neiron Ball Legacy Scholarship will be awarded to a graduating Jackson High School student-athlete who
encompasses both the qualities of the awards Neiron received at the University of Florida.
The recipient(s) of this award will be announced at the Jackson High School graduation by a member of the NB Scholarship committee.