Many athletes across the metroplex have made their dreams of playing at the next level a reality. It starts with campus visits and offers and ends in commitments and signings. Dallas Christian senior running back, Zach Hernandez, took to social media on Wednesday to announce his commitment to Southern Methodist University. Following his announcement, VYPE DFW interviewed him regarding his decision.

Hernandez has racked up over 4,300 yards and 52 touchdowns in his high school career. After playing in Rockwall for his freshman and sophomore seasons, Hernandez transferred to Dallas Christian School up the highway in Mesquite, Texas where he helped play an integral role in leading the Dallas Christian Chargers to another state title. Hernandez was named First Team All-State and continues to put in the hard work and dedication that it takes to continue striving to be the best on and off the field. VYPE was able to catch up with Hernandez for an exclusive interview:

Staying close to home is always exciting. While you get to continue your football career, you already have a built-in fanbase ready to cheer you on. What helped influence your decision to choose SMU?
"It's obviously a close place to home, but I fell in love this visit and it's a great place to pursue my law degree!"

You've made quite the impact with Dallas Christian, what has been your favorite memory on the Chargers' squad?
"I think it's winning that state championship, but there's so many memories on and off: we won Coach Wheeler's 300th game, all the funny locker room moments, every day is a day to remember here at Dallas Christian."

When did you start playing football? Who got you interested in the sport?
"I started playing ball when I was around 8. My dad took me out to a select team practice for a team called the Panthers and I fell in love with football in that moment."

Which professional athlete do you look up to most and why?
"I wouldn't say I look up to anyone. I just follow God and I think I have the best work ethic and determination instilled in me. I don't have to look up to someone."

As you get ready to leave your high school career behind, what do you feel has been your biggest accomplishment?
"Some might say it's winning a state title, but I'd have to say it's just the durability of me breaking a 6A record. It's pretty cool. I don't know, though. That state title felt really good. I just enjoy the game."

As you get ready to prepare for the NCAA, what are your main goals?
"My main goal is just to show everyone 'me'. I know what I am capable of and I just have to do 'me' and they'll find out that I've been doing this my whole life."

Do you have a game day routine that you stick to?
"A game day routine for me looks like eating food and listening to music in my locker. Thinking about football and just visualizing success. I am the quietest thing on a Friday night. Then I go stretch before we warm up."

What do you do in the offseason to keep your skills sharp?
"I workout with my trainers Phillip and V who is a former Tech player; his son plays there now."

What has been your mindset going into each season?
"My mindset every season is to just be better than last year. I want to be the best at everything I do."

In your opinion, what has been the secret to your success and your team's success?
"There is no secret. You get in the gym to lift weights and you put your head down to just run; do what you have to do to stay disciplined."

  

Photo provided by Zach Hernandez

Zach Hernandez running the ball during his senior season with Dallas Christian.

Hernandez has been active on social media expressing his gratitude to everyone who has helped him along his journey posting a special thank you to his parents, coaches, trainers, and more!