Faith-Driven Pedro is Proud to Call SEMO Home
8/4/2025 7:42:00 AM | Football
By Jeff Honza
Associate Director of Athletics for Strategic Communications
CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. – Throughout his life, Cam Pedro has always been deeply rooted in faith, and it's been his guiding light through all of life's ups and downs.
Â
On Pedro's right arm is a tattoo that reads, "Fear God." When he first got it, he thought it was a cool design, but as his relationship with God has grown, it has taken on a much deeper meaning.
Â
"I now view it as a reminder of the respect and reverence I have for God as the Almighty," said Pedro. "As I reflect on my journey as an athlete, I can confidently say that my faith has been a constant source of strength and resilience. Despite the challenges and obstacles, I have found solace knowing that God is always by my side."
Â
Pedro's journey to SEMO wasn't a typical one.
Â
He began his college career at Football Bowl Subdivision member Marshall University, where he faced a series of setbacks due to injuries. Pedro suffered a broken collarbone and knee injuries, which prevented him from playing and reaching his full potential.
Â
"It was a tough time for me both physically and mentally. However, my faith played a crucial role in helping me persevere," Pedro said.
Â
Through all the adversity, he stayed focused and determined, knowing that everything happens for a reason.Â
Â
After recovering from his injuries, Pedro made the difficult decision to enter the transfer portal and seek a fresh start.Â
Â
When SEMO reached out, it felt like the perfect opportunity for Pedro to continue his athletic journey.
Â
 "What drew me to SEMO was the family-oriented environment and the genuine care and support from the coaching staff. I knew it was a place where I could not only grow as an athlete but also as a person," explained Pedro.
Â
Pedro immediately found his niche as a starting wide receiver.
Â
In 2024, he ranked third on the team with 84 catches for 897 yards and four touchdowns in 12 starts. A Second-Team All-Ohio Valley Conference-Big South selection, Pedro finished second in the conference in receptions per game (6.4) and eighth in receiving yards per contest (69 ypg).
Â
"I embraced the challenges and opportunities that came my way. We were a close-knit team last season, relying on each other to achieve our goals," said Pedro. "I always put the team first and that's what made us successful."
Â
Pedro is taking advantage of the platform SEMO gives him off the field too.
Â
A Marketing major, he has worked in various capacities gaining valuable experience. One of those opportunities being at the Pickleball Factory, which opened last December.
Â
"These opportunities are helping me grow as a leader and prepare for life after football," commented Pedro. "It's about being a well-rounded individual and using my education to make a difference in the world."
Â
Pedro is the only starting receiver back from last season's OVC-Big South championship team. With two years of eligibility remaining, he is excited to see what the upcoming 2025 campaign holds.
Â
"SEMO has become my second home, and I'm grateful for the support and opportunities I've received," said Pedro. "I'm proud to represent this university and be a part of a team that values faith, family and community. I'll continue to give my all and strive for greatness."
Â
Associate Director of Athletics for Strategic Communications
CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. – Throughout his life, Cam Pedro has always been deeply rooted in faith, and it's been his guiding light through all of life's ups and downs.
Â
On Pedro's right arm is a tattoo that reads, "Fear God." When he first got it, he thought it was a cool design, but as his relationship with God has grown, it has taken on a much deeper meaning.
Â
"I now view it as a reminder of the respect and reverence I have for God as the Almighty," said Pedro. "As I reflect on my journey as an athlete, I can confidently say that my faith has been a constant source of strength and resilience. Despite the challenges and obstacles, I have found solace knowing that God is always by my side."
Â
Pedro's journey to SEMO wasn't a typical one.
Â
He began his college career at Football Bowl Subdivision member Marshall University, where he faced a series of setbacks due to injuries. Pedro suffered a broken collarbone and knee injuries, which prevented him from playing and reaching his full potential.
Â
"It was a tough time for me both physically and mentally. However, my faith played a crucial role in helping me persevere," Pedro said.
Â
Through all the adversity, he stayed focused and determined, knowing that everything happens for a reason.Â
Â
After recovering from his injuries, Pedro made the difficult decision to enter the transfer portal and seek a fresh start.Â
Â
When SEMO reached out, it felt like the perfect opportunity for Pedro to continue his athletic journey.
Â
 "What drew me to SEMO was the family-oriented environment and the genuine care and support from the coaching staff. I knew it was a place where I could not only grow as an athlete but also as a person," explained Pedro.
Â
Pedro immediately found his niche as a starting wide receiver.
Â
In 2024, he ranked third on the team with 84 catches for 897 yards and four touchdowns in 12 starts. A Second-Team All-Ohio Valley Conference-Big South selection, Pedro finished second in the conference in receptions per game (6.4) and eighth in receiving yards per contest (69 ypg).
Â
"I embraced the challenges and opportunities that came my way. We were a close-knit team last season, relying on each other to achieve our goals," said Pedro. "I always put the team first and that's what made us successful."
Â
Pedro is taking advantage of the platform SEMO gives him off the field too.
Â
A Marketing major, he has worked in various capacities gaining valuable experience. One of those opportunities being at the Pickleball Factory, which opened last December.
Â
"These opportunities are helping me grow as a leader and prepare for life after football," commented Pedro. "It's about being a well-rounded individual and using my education to make a difference in the world."
Â
Pedro is the only starting receiver back from last season's OVC-Big South championship team. With two years of eligibility remaining, he is excited to see what the upcoming 2025 campaign holds.
Â
"SEMO has become my second home, and I'm grateful for the support and opportunities I've received," said Pedro. "I'm proud to represent this university and be a part of a team that values faith, family and community. I'll continue to give my all and strive for greatness."
Â
Players Mentioned
WR
/ FootballSunday, September 20
Tuesday, September 08
Monday, August 31
Friday, August 28
