Behind the Jersey
Published on Sep 10 2025Cody Hayes brings both versatility and heart to College of the Redwoods football, playing tight end and long snapper with dedication and grit. But what drives him goes far beyond the X’s and O’s of the game—it’s about family, perseverance, and being the teammate everyone can count on.
“My biggest influence has been my younger brother, Jesse,” Cody shared. “He’s a senior at Clear Lake High School and plays running back and defensive back. He’s already overcome so many obstacles and always comes back stronger. I try to pave the way for him, but honestly, I often look to him for inspiration to keep going. He reminds me every day what resilience really means.”
That same sense of purpose carries into Cody’s commitment to his team. He describes the culture at CR as the strongest he’s ever been part of. “From day one, our coaches set expectations of competition and hard work. It’s allowed us to grow individually while also growing closer as a team. Whether it’s in the weight room, the classroom, or on the field, we’re always working to build each other up and make our culture stronger.”
Cody embraces the daily grind with humility and focus. “Our coaches remind us to get just a little better every day and to trust the process. Great teams and players don’t become great overnight—it’s a grind most people don’t see. But it’s that grind that shapes character, and I try to bring my best every single day.”
Looking ahead, Cody hopes to continue his football journey. “My goal is to keep playing if the right opportunity presents itself. I love the game, and if I can keep playing while getting school paid for, I would love to do so.” More than that, he hopes his time at CR is remembered not just for his play, but for his character. “When people look back at my time here, I hope I’m remembered as a good teammate and someone who worked hard. It’s not always the best players you remember—it’s the ones who pushed themselves and everyone around them to be better. I hope I’m thought of as one of those guys.”