SACRAMENTO, Calif. — As early as five years old, Arik Armstead showed his dedication to sports by jumping out of bed to chase his father to the gym early in the morning, his mother Christa Armstead told ABC10 ahead of the Super Bowl showdown.
ABC10 sports reporter Kevin John caught up with Christa and Guss Armstead in Las Vegas Sunday as both parents sported their 49ers jerseys in support of their son who plays defensive end.
"Watching as a parent — you're nervous," said Christa Armstead. "I'm always praying for all the players. I'm just saying, 'Please, let everyone be healthy.' It's just a different investment."
She said she was so nervous during the previous 49ers game she had to get away from her seat to walk off the nervous energy.
"I don't know if I'm more nervous than the fans are," said Christa Armstead.
Arik's triumph over his recent injuries is nothing new, Guss Armstead said, as he's been bouncing back from injuries since high school and college.
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Along with recognitions such as being nominated for the Walter Payton Man of the Year award, Guss Armstead said his son's contributions off the field give kids a great sports role model to look up to.
"You're blessed to bless others, and I think he's blessing others with the projects that he has in the community. I think he really makes Sacramento proud and that makes us proud as parents," said Guss Armstead.
Arik Armstead's father left our Kevin John with a hint of who might be playing through his son's headphones as he walks onto the field—and it's not Taylor Swift.
"A little Nipsey Hussle probably, Guss Armstead said.
