Zachary Strayer '15 Recruiting Profile

I have had the dream of playing college football for as long as I can remember.  I have been dedicated to working out to build my strength and skills since 7th grade.  I would get up before school and ride my bike to a workout gym that was operated for kids by my Pop Warner Coach.  I have also always been a dedicated student as well, but by 8th grade I understood that straight A's would increase my opportunities in what universities would be interested in me.  Since 8th grade I have only gotten 2 Bs.  I also understand that taking hard courses matter.  I am taking 5 AP classes now, my junior year.  I have already completed 4 AP classes in my freshmen and sophomore years and have passed all of the AP exams.  Since the spring football game of my freshmen (2012) year I have been a starter on the varsity team.  My sophomore year (fall 2012), I started every game as middle linebacker and played almost every defensive plan the entire season.  On the 3rd play of the first game of my junior year (2013) I tore up my knee.  I had two hair line fractures in my tibia plateau, tore my meniscus, and had a full tear of my ACL.  My season was over.  I was devastated.  It was probably the worst thing I have ever faced in my life.  But I was still committed to the team.  I continued to work out my upper body.  I attended every practice and every game and even assisted in coaching.  My coaches understand my dedication and commitment and awarded me the true warrior award at the end of this season.  This is an award each year that goes to the best student athlete.  My fractures have healed.  My meniscus was repaired at the same time my ACL was replaced, in November (2013).  I am now recovering.  I am at my best weight ever.  I am cleared to do any weight training.  I hope to get cleared to run March, 2014.  I am committed to being the best player on the field next fall, 2014.  I am different than other recruits.  I am smart on the field and off.  I am dedicated to the team, game and to my academics.