NATCHEZ — R.J. Fleming still has to get used to not being able to make a big play every time he touches the ball.

The former Trinity Episcopal standout just finished his freshman season at Arkansas State. The Red Wolves used Fleming in a variety of roles, and Fleming said there was definitely an adjustment to the college game for him this season.

“The speed of the game is the toughest thing to adjust to,” Fleming said. “I think just realizing every time you get the ball that you won’t break a long run is something I’m learning.

“You have to be patient. I was used to getting in the game and always making something big happen every time I touched the ball. The coaches have been telling me to be patient.”

But the fact that Fleming was able to see playing time as a true freshman this past season is not something he’s taking lightly.

“It was awesome,” Fleming said. “Just to be in the midst of great athletes is a blessing from God. I prayed about it a lot, and my family stayed behind me, so it all worked out for the best.”

Fleming played a number of roles for the Red Wolves, including receiver, running back and quarterback. He also started as a kick returner.

“They moved me around according to formation,” Fleming said. “Just whatever way they wanted to get me the ball.”

Even though Fleming didn’t doubt his chances to play as a freshman, it’s still something he said he’s blown away by.

“It’s just that, when you spend time working toward something, to actually live it out, it’s awesome,” Fleming said.

“It was a goal of mine to go into the season and get into the scheme of the coaches and start as a freshman. Me and my family would get around and pray about it, so it definitely is a blessing from God.”

Living away from home has been an adjustment for Fleming, but he said he keeps in touch with a lot of people from Natchez.

“I talk to Natchez people every day,” he said. “I’m slowly but surely getting use to it. Being on my own is totally different. You’re all by yourself, and everything you’ve been taught is thrown into play, as far as being responsible.”

And Fleming said he hasn’t forgotten about his teammates from the Trinity Episcopal Class of 2010.

“I talk to Deacon (Newman) and Brandon Daggs all the time,” Fleming said. “I also talk to Jordan Dossett and Matthew Rymer for sure. We stay connected, and we still have love for one another.”

Despite Arkansas State finishing with a 4-8 record this past season, Fleming said he expects good things for the Red Wolves next fall.

“It wasn’t what we were looking forward to, but I feel like next (season) we’ll rise up,” Fleming said. “Sometimes it takes a heartbreaking season to really appreciate a great one.”

Fleming also said he wanted to let his Natchez fans now how appreciative he is of them.

“I really just want to thank Trinity and coach (David) King and all of Natchez,” he said. “I want to thank my family for backing me, and I have nothing but love for the city.”