For most eighth graders, the Super Bowl might spark a passing conversation at school or a spirited debate. But for Nia Barley, it sparked something much more lasting — a blog that would blend her passion for football with her growing love for writing.

Now a freshman majoring in human development and family studies at Penn State, Barley is still running her blog, capturing the nuances of both the NFL and college football from her unique lens — one shaped not just by her fandom, but also by her experience living with retinitis pigmentosa, a rare genetic disorder that affects vision.

“I started my blog during COVID in eighth grade because of a bet about the Super Bowl,” Barley said. “My mom, who works in public relations, was the one who really encouraged me to write. I’ve always loved football, and this gave me a way to talk about it.”

Her mother’s PR background wasn’t just career inspiration, it became a launchpad. What began as a fun side project evolved into a space where Barley shared her thoughts, predictions, and love for the sport. Since then, her writing has been featured by The Philadelphia Inquirer and even highlighted in an article by the Philadelphia Eagles.

Barley’s journey as a sports fan began at age nine. She grew up cheering for the Denver Broncos because of her admiration for Peyton Manning, but a single Eagles game was all it took to switch allegiances.

“I went to a game and the environment was electric,” she said. “Ever since, I’ve been all in on the Eagles.”

While her love for football runs deep, Barley’s own time playing flag football was cut short due to her visual impairment. Her passion and selflessness on the field earned her the Nia Barley Award, a recognition named in her honor that also comes with a scholarship.

Barley describes retinitis pigmentosa as something that affects her night vision and color perception, but it hasn’t stopped her from diving headfirst into the things she loves.

“I never really saw it as something that would stop me,” she said. “It’s just part of who I am.”

Though she doesn’t plan to pursue sports journalism professionally, Barley keeps her blog alive as a creative outlet and stress reliever. Her career goals lie in clinical counseling or as a child life specialist, fields where she can continue to make an impact on others. 

“Writing will always be something I do for fun,” she said. “It’s something I love, and I don’t want it to feel like work.”

Still, football remains close to her heart. Her dream interview subjects? Eagles legend Jason Kelce and former Penn State tight end Tyler Warren.

“Jason Kelce is such a role model, and Tyler Warren is a great player with a lot of heart,” she said. “Getting to meet and write about them would be incredible.”

Barley’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and perspective. She’s proof that you don’t have to choose between what you love and who you want to be — you can do both, and do them well.

And as for her biggest inspiration? It’s still her mom.

“She’s the reason I even thought this was possible,” Barley said. “She believed in me before anyone else did.”