Rayshawd Barkley, a Virginia native, started his athletic career as a football player and wrestler at Western Branch High School in Chesapeake, Va. He continued his football career at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Va., as a defensive end and was team captain for the 2004 season.
Barkley earned his undergraduate degree in business finance from Liberty University and went on to earn his MBA from the University of Phoenix.
Barkley, 27, is relatively new to auto racing and NASCAR, but has been getting more into the sport in recent years. He knows that the Drive for Diversity Crew Member Development program presented by Sprint is providing him with a once in a lifetime opportunity to continue his athletic career and plans to make the most out of the opportunity.