Fatherhood is ‘a blessing’ for Gators defensive lineman Gervon Dexter Sr.
While Gervon Dexter Sr. deals with updated roles in Florida’s new-look defense, he also embraces a new chapter in his life: fatherhood.
On May 9, 2022, Dexter became a father to a baby boy, Gervon Lashawn Dexter Jr. Now, the 6-foot-6, 312-pound defensive lineman has a new outlook on what is important to him.
“It’s been a huge motivation for me,” Dexter said of becoming a father. “Before I was a dad, it was kind of like everything I was doing, it was kind of for me almost, like my goals. I’m sure some of you guys know if you have kids, it’s not about you anymore; it’s about him now.”
Fatherhood is something that Dexter doesn’t take lightly. The preseason All-SEC selection wants to be the best father he can be and do whatever it takes to set up his son for success.
“Everything I do now is trying to set his life up for the better,” Dexter said.
Being a father and a student-athlete can be incredibly challenging, as time commitments to each can be difficult to juggle. Just a few months in, Dexter faces those challenges firsthand.
As the Gators report for training camp, the junior must spend time away his son while he perfects his craft on the field.
“Today we start camp; we got to go up to the hotel; that’s probably one of my saddest days is leaving him,” Dexter said.
Fatherhood is special for Dexter
Everything changed when Dexter lost his own father, Gerald, in 2020. Gerald and Gervon were especially close throughout Gervon’s childhood, even though Gerald was busy working to support his family. Gerald still carved out time to spend time with Gervon, allowing them to build an unbreakable bond.
Gerald’s work ethic stuck with Gervon, paving the way for him to be the best father he can. “I’ll be a great father because of you,” Dexter posted in honor of his late father.
Now that Dexter has a chance to make an impression on his own son, he wants to make the most of the opportunity.
“I can’t even explain,” Dexter said, “how good it’s been for me being a father.”
Stay tuned to Gators Online.
![Florida Gators head coach Billy Napier celebrates with Florida Gators wide receiver Aidan Mizell (11) after a touchdown during the first half at the Orange and Blue spring football game at Steve Spurrier Field at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainesville, FL on Saturday, April 13, 2024. [Matt Pendleton/Gainesville Sun]](https://on3static.com/cdn-cgi/image/height=215,width=393,quality=90,fit=cover,gravity=0.5x0.5/uploads/dev/assets/cms/2024/04/13155133/Untitled-design-65-2.png)
