Dylan (DJ) Whiles '18 Recruiting Profile

I would like to play football at the collegiate level while pursuing a degree in sports medicine to become either an athletic trainer or physical therapist.  I am also considering a major in criminal justice.

I didn't start playing football until I was in 3rd grade, but the first time I put on a helmet and shoulder pads, I knew it was the sport for me.  I wasn't given the chance to play too much that first year because I was a pretty small kid, but when I came back the next year, not much bigger in size but with the excitement and determination to get some game time, my coaches saw that and gave me the chance I needed to prove that I could be a good player.  

I believe that as I continue to grow both in skill, size and speed I can be a valuable asset to a college defensive squad on the field.  There's nothing better than hitting someone on the down hill run to make a hit for a yardage loss.  Although I had to sit out my sophomore year due to an injury, I made the best of the situation by studying game film of my team and our opponents, motivating my teammates at practice and being there to help my coaches with whatever they needed.  I believe this showed my coaches my commitment to the team.

After I healed and was cleared to compete, I went on to wrestle for the winter season at the Varsity level.  I believe that wrestling allows me to increase my stamina, develop better eye-hand coordination, and to use my explosiveness to be quick off the line.  I continue to  work in the weight room 4 days a week - to build mass and quickness.