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Senior Spotlight: Defensive End Ty Shelby

Senior Spotlight: Defensive End Ty Shelby

Football Oct 07
By Paul Letlow, ULMWarhawks.com Online Columnist
 
Editor's Note: This Senior Spotlight is republished from the Oct. 3 digital game program (vs. Georgia Southern).
 
Senior defensive end Ty Shelby never minds having his number called on and off the field.

It's common knowledge around the ULM football program that when a player is needed for community engagement, Shelby is one of the go-to guys. Just ask and he's always willing to help out.

"I still remember going to the Baptist Children's Home for an Easter egg hunt," Shelby said. "I definitely enjoy trying to give back to the community as much as possible."

Shelby's willingness to pitch in also benefitted the ULM basketball program during the 2018-19 season. When ULM basketball coach Keith Richard needed an extra body to help a depleted roster, he asked football coach Matt Viator for a loaner. Shelby, who enjoyed a solid prep career on the court, was the player to be named later.

"The transition from football to basketball was a hard one," Shelby said. "Especially trying to get back into basketball shape, which is a whole different level than football. But Coach Richard and those guys accepted me with open arms. I actually learned a lot from them."

Although he made modest contributions during basketball games, his work in practice was appreciated. The experience also seemed to enhance his football career once he crossed back over to Malone Stadium.

"I was able to move a lot quicker and my endurance was better," Shelby said. "The coaches said I looked faster on the field and was able to flip my hips better when I was pass rushing."

Now a senior, Shelby also relishes his role as a mentor to the underclassmen at his position.

"I see all these young guys with all the hopes they have," he said. "I try to tell them, no matter what happens, just keep working hard. At the end of the day, all the hard work pays off. Late-hour film sessions, if you want to stay with me, I don't mind helping."

Shelby comes by his athleticism and his versatility naturally. His father Shannon played tight end and offensive line at Arkansas and his mother Tyneshia was a high school basketball player.

"Growing up, my dad didn't really have a preference as to what sport I played," Shelby said. "Growing up, I had a lot of opportunities. I played football and basketball. I tried t-ball but that didn't work out too well. I also did shot put and discus in track. He pushed me to excel in both."

Shelby signed with ULM after a big senior year at Friendswood (Texas) High School. He made 87 tackles with 13.5 sacks and forced five fumbles while earning second-team All-State.

"Monroe really reminded of my hometown of Friendswood," Shelby said. "It's a close community and everybody knows everybody really. A good thing is there's not much to get into, so you can't really get into trouble. That's what I loved about Monroe."

Shelby already has his finance degree and is working on a master's in business administration. Always ready with the helping hand, Shelby has noble goals professionally too.

"I'm hoping to become a broker or an investment banker," Shelby said. "That's what I see myself doing. As an investment banker or a financial advisor, I'd be able to help people reach their financial goals, whether it's trying to buy a house or save money for college. I see myself trying to help people along the road and see what I can do for them."

 
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