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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: McKinney North stand-out DE, Zion Carter, commits to Lamar University
As the 2023-24 football season gets underway, athletes across the metroplex are still making decisions about their future. McKinney North stand-out defensive end, Zion Carter, recently announced his commitment to play football at Lamar University following his senior season. VYPE DFW caught up with the Bulldog regarding his decision in an exclusive interview:
Impactful on the field and a key contributor to McKinney North's defense, Carter has been focused on leaving a mark on the Bulldogs' program. With his senior season ahead, Carter is ready to make big plays and get the job done. Check out his exclusive interview with VYPE DFW below!
It's not easy making a decision to commit to a college program. What went into your decision? What was the biggest impact when choosing Lamar University?
"Lamar is an excellent school. It was the best decision for me to get on the field and have an opportunity to play as a true freshman. It was also a chance for me to get a good education."
What has been your favorite memory at McKinney North so far?
"My favorite memory at my school as of now is when my brothers (teammates) and I all hung out without any coaches or anyone telling us to."
Who is a professional athlete that you look up to? Why?
"A professional athlete I look up to is my cousin, Mekhi Garner. Makhi taught me that there will be ups and downs in your career, but you just have to find a way and trust God."
What would you say has been your biggest accomplishment in your high school career so far?
"My biggest accomplishment in my high school career has been leadership. I had to step up early. After the 2022 class left, I took the leadership role during my sophomore season during the offseason. After that, I progressed as a leader and as a player. I set high expectations for myself as a leader because I still want the best for my team."
Do you have a game day routine that you typically stick to?
"My game day routine mainly consists of lots of music. Music on game days is a true necessity for me."
What do you do in the off-season to prepare for the season ahead?
"I mainly prepare my mental state because, as a leader, you can't show yourself being tired. I prepare my goals. Every off-season, I set a weight goal and a max goal that I want to reach."
What is your mindset headed into the new season?
"My mindset is that I will put my foot on the gas every time I step on the field. Don't let up until the game is over. Every single game."
What are your goals this season?
"My goals this season are to lead the district in sacks and tackles-for-a-loss. I'd also like to earn First Team All-District and Defensive Player of the Year honors."
In your opinion, what has been the secret to your and your team's success?
"There's no secret. We come to practice every day and every afternoon. We grind our butts off for the Friday night games. My success is based on how I lead my team."
Sam Houston State gets big verbal from DeSoto QB
As the summer continues to heat up, interest in athletes across the metroplex is high. With recruiting comes decision making and with decision making comes commitments. At DeSoto, state champion quarterback D.J. Bailey announced his commitment to play football for Sam Houston State University.
During his junior season, Bailey was prolific for the Eagles where he threw 45 touchdowns while completing 67% of his passes for 3,840 yards. Choosing Sam Houston State over the likes of Austin Peay, Lamar, and Weber State, Bailey looks toward a senior season filled with honing in on his skills in the pocket. With the ability to learn from every moment on the field, Bailey is consistent in watching film to fine-tune his ability in the quarterback position. Check out his commitment below:
AGTG @BearkatsFB pic.twitter.com/dcm6RuWIue
— 5 (@DJBailey5_) July 30, 2023