Two North Pole football players represent their Filipino culture in the highest honor

FAIRBANKS, Alaska (KTUU/KTVF) - Two North Pole High School Filipino football players have achieved major milestones in 2024. Long snapper AJ Melvin and running back Patrick Melvin have received first and second all-state team all-D11 honors.

The two brothers share a close bond. For AJ, playing long snapper was an easy transition and marks the second time he’s made Alaska’s all-state team.

“Last year I got number two for long snapper, and then this year number one,” AJ said. “It felt pretty amazing.”

Patrick, on the other hand, it took him a while to find success. In 2024, he rushed for 892 yards. That’s a 500-yard increase from 2023. Patrick says everything clicked in their 2024 season opener against Lathrop.

“They’re a tough opponent,” Patrick said. “I had to like, flip the script and just try to be better than them.”

Their mother, Cherry, who was born and raised in the Philippines, is their biggest supporter. Growing up in a Filipino household, her sons were amused by her personality.

“The loudness in the house whenever they’re on the phone with her family, cooking, or being mad at us and just not knowing what she’s like saying to us,” AJ said.

The Melvin Brothers take a lot of pride in representing their heritage through football.

“I bless it with all my heart. It’s why I love my mom ... and just carry that legacy on,” Patrick said.

“My senior year, with my back plate,” AJ said. “I put the Filipino American flag on my back plate to represent.”

AJ finished his senior season and will be graduating this summer. Patrick will be returning for his final in August. The two plan on visiting the Philippines this year.

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