Kamar Mothudi, In His Words: Why I Chose Cal

What's up, Bear fans? My name is Kamar Mothudi and I play inside linebacker at Cal. 

I grew up in View Park-Windsor Hills in Los Angeles. My childhood was always active. Whether I was playing sports, acting, singing in choir or just outside with friends and my siblings, I was constantly on the move. Some of my favorite memories are the simple ones. I remember riding my bike around the neighborhood and one time, taking a little cart we had at our apartment down a hill. I crashed, flew out of it, and my younger brother and sister couldn't stop laughing.

I'm the oldest of three, and my younger brother is genuinely one of my best friends. My family has always loved football, so the game has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. My dad also had a saying that stuck with me: "Creed number one: Balance, focus, safety, think smart." It's something I've carried with me ever since.

I started playing football when I was five years old. Growing up, I played linebacker, running back and tight end, and I've always loved being around the ball. One coach who had a huge impact on me was my high school coach, Coach Keys. He played a major role in helping me become the player I am today. 

The moment I realized college football could become reality was when guys I grew up playing youth football with started getting scholarship offers. I knew I could compete with anybody, so seeing them earn those opportunities made me believe I could, too. High school wasn't always easy. I went to school about an hour from home, so every day meant long drives, bus rides and adjusting to a different environment. It helped me mature and taught me discipline.

Recruiting started slowly, but once it took off, it was an incredible feeling. Becoming an All-American and a four-star recruit showed me all the hard work was paying off.

I began my college career at Oregon, where I learned what Division I football really looks like. One of my favorite memories was beating Ohio State and watching the fans rush the field. It was an unforgettable experience. Eventually, though, I felt like I needed a fresh start. I knew I had more to offer, but I didn't feel like there was a clear vision for how I would be used.

Coach Tosh Lupoi was a big reason I chose Oregon, and he's also the biggest reason I'm at Cal. During my visit, we sat down one-on-one and talked honestly about my goals. I told him exactly what I wanted to accomplish, and he explained how he could help me get there. That conversation gave me confidence that Cal had a real plan for my development. I also considered NC State and Purdue, but when the football opportunities felt similar, staying in California and being closer to my family made Cal the right choice.

Since arriving in Berkeley, the biggest surprise has honestly been all the hills. There's definitely more walking than I expected. My biggest adjustment has been getting used to in-person classes again, but I've really enjoyed being part of the program and learning from the coaching staff.

I think Cal fans are going to see a team that plays fast, physical and together. We have a hungry group that's ready to compete, and I'm excited to be part of it.

Outside of football, I'm a creative person. I enjoy photography, content creation, fashion, gaming, technology, anime and interior design. I also spend a lot of time with my dog, Pac. Most people probably wouldn't guess that I also took acting seriously growing up and sang in choir.

What motivates me when nobody's watching is the chance to leave a legacy. Football is bigger than just the game to me. It's my opportunity to create something that lasts, take care of my family and make an impact that goes beyond myself. When my career is over, I hope people remember that I gave everything I had every time I stepped onto the field and that I was a genuine person off of it. My biggest fear is being remembered only for my potential. I want to turn that potential into something real.

Right now, though, my focus is simple: help Cal win football games, keep growing every day and make Bear fans proud.

Go Bears!

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