Daniel McHugh '20 Recruiting Profile

I am the big kid.  I am 6’ tall and over 300 lbs. and athletically built.  Is that my only identity in this world? My appearance visually sets me apart but really it is my drive, my hopes and my dreams that I believe sets me apart.

Naturally, due to my size and my love of football, I am a defensive lineman.   It is such a rush to beat out the opponent, fill the gap, and stop the play. But there is more to me.  I am easy going, sweet and kind. I am determined to be better and succeed. Each year, I can see how I have improved.  I realize now the harder I work the more opportunities come my way. I am willing to work for what others dream of.  

As someone who is passionate about improving, I worked hard during the off-season to  improve my football skills. During the football season, I worked with a trainer to elevate my game.  During my senior year, I was honored with the most improved football player award. As a result, my trainers saw my dedication and commitment and offered me an internship as an assistant football coach to work with an all-star football team.  This team participated at the world youth championships at the Football Hall of Fame this year. I was able to take my natural gifts, enhance them, and show others what I have to offer.   

I am always striving to be better, this is the way I live my life. Additionally,  I am a ski instructor and I teach all age groups. The ski director I work with was able to see my ability to motivate and teach others and recommended me to the Special Olympics team as an instructor.   I have been honored to train the same Olympian for two years now, as he will only work with me. There is no greater feeling to have someone believe in you, a mutual reward. Whenever an opportunity is presented to me, I look to make the most of it.  I want to make certain others recognize in me what makes me a great instructor, team mate, coach and student.

Academically I have struggled but continue to improve my grades.  While in K-8, I was diagnosed with ADD and was on an IEP and in speech therapy.  I worked hard and graduated from speech therapy and progressed to a 504 plan. I know how to advocate for myself while working through challenges.  I am a work in progress academically but am willing to keep working hard to succeed in college.

I am more than the big kid.  I am determined and always working to improve and prove myself.  I am willing to work to open doors to new opportunities. I am the underdog that supports other underdogs.  I am looking for that college opportunity that can see what I have to offer the world and the sports community, and one that will help me reach my potential.