In the past four years, Brandon Brown, an eighth-grade student at Landmark Christian School in Fairburn, has tossed around the pigskin while running through game plays.

This spring, however, Brown had the chance in a lifetime to showcase his skills —Junior Rank’s Diamond Camp.

“During the month of April, we signed up Brandon for a Junior Rank Diamond Camp right here in Atlanta,” said Brown’s father Dwayne. “The scouts at the Atlanta Diamond Camp were so impressed with Brandon as defensive back.”

So impressed, in fact, Brown received an invite to the invitation only Prodigy Camp in Naples, Fla., to compete against other seventh- and eighth-grade players from across the country.

His performance at Prodigy Camp secured a coveted spot in the Academic All-American game as a defensive back.

Brown will play in the game Jan. 4 in Carson, Calif., at the Home Depot Center.

When Brown first learned of the news, he was enthused.

“I was excited because it shows that I can compete with the best athletes in the country,” he said.

His father shared a similar sentiment.

“Simply honored,” Dwayne said. “My wife and I were so happy that Brandon was recognized as one of the top youth defensive backs in the country at the Junior Rank Prodigy Camp. We knew that this would be such a confidence booster.”

The week leading up to the Junior Rank All-American Academic football game, played in East vs. West format, will include team practices, meetings and team dinners.

Brown sees the opportunity as one he will surely never forget.

“Being a part of this football team lets me know that I really am one of the few, very smart, elite players in the country,” he said.