NEW SMYRNA BEACH, Fla. – At the end of an early training camp practice, Bethune-Cookman Head Football Coach Terry Sims emphasized that he was looking for leadership and it didn't necessary have to come from the upperclassmen.
 
The epitome of that is Jamauri "Bam" Laguerre.
 
Part one of Laguerre's rise has been the leadership by example route. He came to BCU from Miami Edison as a walk on, earned his scholarship after his freshman year, and after a promising sophomore campaign, is poised to guide the all-important cornerbacks in what should be a talented Wildcat defensive secondary.
 
No surprise at all to Sims.
 
"He's a guy with a great hunger for the games," Sims said of the junior. "He had everything it took to be a great players and for him to come here and walk on shows the caliber of player he is."
 
Laguerre had interceptions in two of BCU's first three games of 2018, the first in the Virginia-Lynchburg victory and the second in an inspired effort at Florida Atlantic that also saw him post a season-high eight tackles.
 
"I started off strong," Laguerre said. "FAU was one of my best games.  When it was time to work, I did my job."
 
The part now is for Laguerre to become more of a vocal leader, and again, Sims has confidence in what Laguerre can do."
 
"He's a natural leader," Sims said. "He's been a guy who has led by example both on and off the field and he's always trying to take a younger guy or a guy who hasn't played and showed them the ropes.
 
Laguerre has an idea why he has the respect of the corners group.
 
"I'm laid back," Laguerre said. "I listen. I learn, then I put what I've learn on to the field and action."
 
He also knows he needs to be vocal.
 
"I need to open up and lead the guys under me," Laguerre said.  "They need to see me more active."
 
That includes during the game as well.
 
"It's a competitive game," Laguerre said. "In the past, I've just kept my mouth piece in and did the job."
 
BCU continues preseason preparation for its 2019 season opener against Jackson State in the MEAC/SWAC Challenge on Sunday, September 1 in Atlanta, Ga. The 3 p.m. kickoff will air on ESPN 2.