Who Is Jasmine Plummer?
Jasmine Plummer is a notable figure in youth football, having made history as both the first female quarterback and the first Black female athlete to lead her team to the Super Bowl within the Pop Warner youth athletic organization. Her impressive journey began at a young age when she joined the Harvey Colts, where she was coached by her uncle. By the age of 11, Plummer had already established herself as a star quarterback, showcasing her talent and determination on the field. Her inspiring story was later adapted into the film The Longshots, featuring Keke Palmer in the lead role.
Early Life
Born in the early 1990s in Harvey, Illinois, Jasmine Plummer developed a passion for football while playing with neighborhood children. Despite her mother’s initial concerns about her playing a sport dominated by larger boys, Plummer’s tenacity and skill shone through. Under the mentorship of her uncle, Fred Johnson, she honed her abilities and joined the Pop Warner leagues—a nonprofit organization that provides athletic programs for youth worldwide. This foundation not only nurtured her love for the game but also set the stage for her groundbreaking achievements in football.
Making History
Jasmine Plummer made history when she was signed as the starting quarterback for the Harvey Colts in the 7-to-9-year-old division. Demonstrating exceptional athleticism, she not only excelled as a quarterback but also played as a linebacker and participated in competitive wrestling. Plummer noted a significant transformation in her personality while playing football; she became notably assertive and vocal on the field, a stark contrast to her quieter demeanor off the field. In addition to her athletic prowess, Plummer was a dedicated student, consistently achieving straight A’s in her elementary school studies.
After advancing to the Colts’ Junior Pee Wee division, Plummer and her team enjoyed an impressive 11-1 season, culminating in a Super Bowl appearance. At the age of 11, she made history as both the first female quarterback and the first Black female athlete to lead a team to the national championships in Pop Warner’s long-standing history. Although the Colts were defeated by the Southeast Apaches, Plummer’s remarkable achievements left an indelible mark on the sport.
Movie Starring Keke Palmer
In 2008, Jasmine Plummer’s inspiring journey was depicted in the film The Longshots, where she was portrayed by actress and singer Keke Palmer. The film also featured rapper and actor Ice Cube as her uncle, who was given the fictional name Curtis Plummer.
“Playing quarterback, in any league and no matter what age, is the hardest position in sports,” Ice Cube stated in an interview with ESPN’s Sam Alipour. “For Jasmine to do it, and to take her team to the championship despite all of the obstacles and everyone telling her, ‘You can’t do it,’ is incredible. She’s a very brave and strong girl.”
Other Athletic Achievements and Legacy
Beyond football, Plummer has continued to excel in various athletic pursuits, including track and field and varsity basketball at Joliet West High School. Her groundbreaking achievements have paved the way for other female athletes; since Plummer’s time as a quarterback, the number of girls enrolled in Pop Warner football has doubled. Her impact extends beyond her own achievements, inspiring other players such as Caroline Pla and Erin DiMeglio, who have also gained national recognition.