At Mater Dei High School in California, 2029 running back Asir Nembhard is already carving out a name for himself on one of the biggest stages in high school football. His journey with the game began early, and from the start, football separated itself from every other sport he tried. “I started playing football when I was about 5 or 6 years old,” Nembhard said. “I was trying out different sports like soccer and basketball, but when I was on the football field nothing compared to it.”

That early connection quickly turned into a lifelong passion. Nembhard explained that once he felt the energy of the game, his path became clear. “Ever since then I knew that playing football is what I wanted to spend my life doing,” he said. That mindset has helped fuel his rapid growth as a young running back competing at a national powerhouse.

A major part of Nembhard’s development has come from the people around him. He credits multiple influences, but two stand above the rest. “The two main people I would say are Matt Aram, and my Dad,” he said. Aram, his personal trainer out of San Diego, has helped elevate his game through detailed offseason work. “He really pushed me to the next level from a young age with offseason plans that focused on plyometrics and calisthenics… making the little things a priority like my foot mechanics, balance, keeping my body right, and overall strength.”

Family has also played a critical role in his rise. Nembhard emphasized how important his father has been throughout the process. “My Dad has been there by my side from the beginning to help me get to where I want to go,” he said. “He’s really the one who makes sure I work with the right people that could help put me in the position to succeed.”

The 2025 season presented a unique challenge as Nembhard entered Mater Dei as a 14-year-old true freshman in a crowded varsity running back room. “My goal for the 2025 season was just to work hard so that I could get opportunities to be on the field,” he explained. Despite offers to play elsewhere, he embraced the competition. “I felt confident in my offseason work that I was ready to compete.”
Even with limited touches, Nembhard made the most of every opportunity. “I worked my way up the roster and played well, I even scored a touchdown on my first varsity carry ever,” he said. By season’s end, he led the team in yards per carry and finished second in yards per game, a strong statement for one of the youngest players on the roster.

Looking ahead, his focus is already locked on what’s next. “Going into 2026, I want to build off of 2025,” Nembhard said. “I started my offseason training as soon as the season ended because I want to contribute more to the team so we can try to win a National Championship.” That hunger to improve continues to separate him from his peers.

Recruiting has followed his on-field success, and Nembhard is taking it all in stride. “The recruiting process for me has been exciting,” he said. “So far I have an offer from Sac State and just received one from the University of Oregon.” While many programs stand out, he remains patient. “I appreciate even being considered by these D1 programs… as I get closer to that time me and my family will figure it out.”

Off the field, Nembhard enjoys staying active and connected to those closest to him. “The hobbies I have outside of football are working out, playing video games, listening to music, traveling, and talking to those I love,” he shared. Still, football remains at the center of everything. “The big picture is always in focus so it always brings me back to that.”

Follow his journey on X @AsirNembhard.