Elijah Sarratt: The Man Behind the Nickname and the Faith That Drives Him

From Humble Beginnings to Gridiron Stardom

Elijah Sarratt, the standout wide receiver for Indiana, has been turning heads with his exceptional performances on the field. His journey from Stafford, Virginia, to the national championship game is nothing short of inspiring.

Early Life and Family Values

Born on May 28, 2003, to Donnie and Kim Sarratt, Elijah is the youngest of three brothers. His parents instilled in him the values of sports, discipline, and consistency, but they never pressured him to pursue football as a guaranteed path to success.

Football Roots and the "Waffle House" Nickname

Growing up, Elijah played football at Colonial Forge High School and St. Frances Academy. His older brothers, Jalen and Josh, were also active players, giving Elijah early exposure to the game. His father, Donnie, affectionately nicknamed him "Waffle House" because Elijah was always available, much like the 24/7 diner. This nickname stuck with him throughout his collegiate career.

High School Success and Collegiate Beginnings

Elijah's talent began to shine at Colonial Forge High School. He was known for his route running, ball tracking, and willingness to do the little things that make a big difference. His family supported him without being overbearing, allowing coaches to guide his development. This approach helped him enroll at James Madison University before transferring to Indiana University.

Cultural Background and Faith

Elijah's ethnicity is Native American, with both his parents being American nationals. His father, Donnie, is from Stafford, Virginia, but there isn't much public information about their heritage beyond that. Elijah is a Christian who credits God for every milestone in his life. He attended St. Frances Academy, a Catholic Christian school, and even ran the "4:13 Youth Football Camp" to support young students. The number 4:13 refers to Philippians 4:13, which states, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

Transfer Portal and Future Aspirations

In 2023, Elijah announced his entry into the transfer portal, thanking God for his journey so far. He expressed gratitude to James Madison University but decided to explore other opportunities with two years of eligibility left.