BALIAL SLOAN EL '12 GIVING BACK TO COMMUNITY WHILE LAUNCHING A FITNESS AND CLOTHING LINE
 
Balial Sloan El wrapped up a successful career at running back in 2012 and moved on to mentoring youth, founding a fitness and motivation company and starting an accompanying clothing line. During his time in West Long Branch he appeared in 20 games for the Hawks at running back. Sloan El graduated in 2012 with a degree in health science.
 
Question 1 Since graduating, what have you been up to professionally?
BS: Professionally I've been healing others in various aspects of life. I am a personal trainer with a passion for helping others. In 2018, I completed my masters at Rowan University. Currently, I reside in PA where I am a therapist for at risk youth.
 
Q2 Can you explain the unique story behind how you arrived at the name 'Boss Branded"
BS: Boss Branded began as a joke. As an undergrad, a few friends of mine were big into a rap beef between rappers 50 cent and Rick Ross. Part of the joke was saying the word "boss" in various voices that mocked Rick Ross. From the video, the word boss stuck with me and before we knew it , I adopted the word boss and used it as a moniker. After college, the word boss stick with me and I used it to create what is now known as Boss Branded Fitness & Motivation. 

Q3 What made you want to start designing and selling your own clothing? 
BS: I never thought I would be designing and creating apparel and clothing, but here I am. I've always been into fashion and sneakers and from there a clothing line was created to expression a sense of style that is unique. To market my business, I used my fashion. I've been able to create various styles of clothing and apparel that not only is fashionable, but makes a statement. 

Q4 From when you started until now, what business or design tips have you learned? 
BS: I started doing vinyl on shirts and hoodies. Now I've ventured into embroidery and sublimation on fabrics. I've learned a lot from others, but always taking risk and trying new designs to make Boss Branded stand out when it's seen.
 
Q5 What class or a professor you had at Monmouth influenced you the most?
BS: There are a few professors that Influenced me. Dr. Mack the anatomy and physiology teacher at Monmouth always encouraged me to step out and take risk. In addition, Professor Polito is another individual that had an influence on my career. She was always there and made sure I stayed in track. 
 
Q6 Do you still keep in touch with your teammates? Which ones? 
BS: Of course! I keep in contact with most of the guys I've played with via social media. The main guys I've stayed in contact with are Dorian Evans and Dino Molina. 
 
Q7 Is there a specific play that stands out to you in your career? What about a specific game?
BS: The Villanova game where I ran for a touchdown. It was big for me because I went to high school In Philadelphia. I had lots of family and friends there, so to play in front on them was great. Also my high school QB played for Villanova so it was a bit of competition between us.

Q8 Who did you model your playing style after?
BS: I never really modeled my game after anyone specific, but in college we watched a ton of Adrian Peterson highlights. 

Q9 – Have you been back to see a game? What did you think about the success the team has had over the last few years?
BS: I've been back once or twice to see a game. I've been following the team briefly that last few years and they have made some great strides to become nationally known. I wish them much success and hopefully they can bring home a national title ring soon. 

Q10If you could tell yourself one thing as a freshman, what would it be?
BS: Go to class!! Having so much freedom, class was not a main priority. I skipped class all the time.