BR-11 Pittsburg State is off to a good start this season, 4-1 and just starting play in a tough MIAA conference. In this week’s edition of “Getting to Know” the player, we talk with starting free safety Deron Washington. Washington is not only a gifted player, he is gifted in the classrooms and a great leader on the team. Check out his answer’s below, do you agree that you may be cheering him on during the in D2 football National Championship?
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As a fifth year player, what kind of leadership role do you play on the team? Is there a player you’ve taken under your win?
I am the leader of the secondary, the other defensive backs look up to me and we discuss things that will be beneficial during the game. I am also working to get us to come together more as one since we did lose some experience from last year. I have taken Demetrius Bernard under my wing. I like how he plays and he is in the same situation as me, he had a red shirt then a medical red shirt. I know he looks up to me and I want to lead him correctly!
What does it mean to be the Student Athlete Advisory Committee Representative?
I am the student athlete voice for the conference and for my institution. I am viewed as a leader by my athletic peers and if there is a consensus on something that needs change I will voice the opinion to our liaisons. I also like the community engagement things. I feel that if I want fans to be at the games I must do something for them, and have a good time while doing it.
Which game do you think is going to be the toughest match up of the season for you guys and why?
The next one, the MIAA is a very strong conference. We cannot look past anyone, but I think Northwest and Emporia will be great games. Emporia is playing very well right now, the quarterback is accurate and they look dangerous.
What’s your favorite team bonding activity?
It would have to be our team meeting on Friday. It’s away from coaches and we can just talk about the game.
Is there any pre-game rituals you have?
I must listen to a certain array of songs but the last one has to be I Put On For My City, by Young Jeezy. From then on I am ready to play.
If you had to survive in the wilderness with another teammate, who would you choose and why?
I would choose Gavin Rainwater, he seems like the wilderness type and could survive in the wild. I could do the fast movement things, like chasing a wounded animal but he would be the person skinning and cooking it.
What are your plans for after football?
I would like to be a professional player; if that plan fails then I would like to be a worker on a power plant at an engineering firm.
What are your hobbies outside of football?
I like to play video games and read my Bible.
What’s something most people wouldn’t know about you?
That I play chess, and I also am ambidextrous.
Pick a historical NFL defense that you’d want to play on, why that team?
It would have to be the Baltimore Ravens and play with Ray Lewis, he was just a different type of leader that could lead in any situation.
Have you ever gotten scared of your guy’s mascot before? (a guy in a gorilla suit is pretty freaky)
When I was first recruited I was freaked out by our mascot, but now it has become a part of me.
What’s the best food that you can make yourself?
My famous chicken alfredo, nothing special.
Favorite romantic comedy?
Safe Haven, but this is a secret.
Favorite TV show character?
My favorite character would have to be Riley from the Boondocks, since he is so young he is not mature but the fact that he acts like he is the wisest person in the world humors me.
Favorite restaurant in your college town?
I will have to go with my employer, Applebee’s. It’s a great family environment with excellent food.
Would you rather play in a game against an elite quarterback like Peyton Manning or an elite receiver like Calvin Johnson?
I would much rather play against an elite quarterback. A quarterback can make average receivers look great. If it is just one receiver we will have coverage schemes to make sure he doesn’t touch the ball.
Predict who will win the D2 football championship this year. Why?
I am thinking it will be the team who scores the most points in that game. I will have to say my Pittsburg State, the young team is coming together and has yet to reach full potential.
