Interview: 2019 California DB/LB Trenton Gill Preps for Championship Title Defense
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
After the first four games of the 2017 season, how the rest of the schedule may play out for San Fernando High School was questionable. The Tigers were 2-2 winning two games in lopsided fashion while also losing two game posting just seven total points on the board. But, by Game 5 something clicked. The Tigers found their groove steamrolling Division-I California competition in the Valley Mission League winning 10 consecutive games, while blanking six opponents, on the way to a CIF championship. One of the key players on the Tigers stingy defense was versatile linebacker/defensive back Trenton Gill.
Gill is that player all coaches love to have on the team. His passion and drive is only matched by his never give up attitude. At 5-8, 170 pounds, Gill moved down in the box playing inside linebacker for the Tigers ending the season with second team All-Valley League honors after coming up with 63 tackles, 4.5 sacks, two forced fumbles and one interception. In the championship game against Dorsey, Gill shinned brightest coming up with two sacks and a fumble recovery helping bring home the trophy for San Fernando.
In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with the rising Class of 2019 Los Angeles area product getting insight on his junior year, offseason workouts, and upcoming college camp circuit.
Interview
Trenton, how did the playoff run push your game to another level?
“In the playoffs, every game is an elimination game – anything can happen. I knew I had to step up my game. I stepped up my game and made plays.”
You had some big plays during the championship game against Dorsey getting a couple of sacks, how did that game go for you under the biggest spotlight?
“That game was great. I did have two sacks, that was hyped. I had a fumble recovery as well.”
You are listed as a defensive back but played inside-backer and did a lot of blitzing last season. How would you describe your assignments for the Tigers last season?
“Watch my hole, time my blitzes, and pressure the QB – make sure I did not give up any big runs.”
Which areas of your game saw the most improvement during your junior year?
“My biggest improvement was reading the linemen. That is a different look than being a DB. I also had to know whatever one else was doing on the field as our linebacker.”
What is the focus of your workouts this offseason?
“This offseason, I am working on getting faster, working on my hands, and my backpedal as a DB.”
Are you going back to playing defensive back during your senior year?
“Yes. I am going back to being a DB. On defense, I will play rover and free safety this year.”
Where all will we see you on the field during your senior year other than at rover and free safety?
“Other than rover and free safety, I will play some running back if they need me and some receiver as well.”
Where are you seeing the biggest gains with your skillset this spring?
“I am seeing the biggest gains going sideline-to-sideline.”
Is there an area of your game you feel gets overlooked?
“I’m an excellent open-field tackler.”
When do the Tigers start spring ball?
“We started about two weeks ago.”
How is the team looking so far this spring?
“We are looking great. We have a lot of people coming back, and we have some big linemen on the team too.”
Have you attended any camps or combines this offseason?
“I competed at an Adidas camp and the U.S. Army All-American Camp.”
Which schools are showing recruiting interest?
“Portland State, Nevada, and Oregon State.”
Which schools have come by San Fernando to meet with you or see you in practice?
“UCLA, Nevada, Washington, Oregon, Redlands, Oregon State, and Boise State.”
What are the college coaches telling you they like about your game?
“They like that I am coachable.”
Have you visited any schools in 2018 yet?
“Yes. I have visited Sacramento State, UCLA, and Fresno State.”
Do you have any planned visits upcoming?
(Laughs) “Yes. I plan on visiting the same schools; Sacramento State, UCLA, and Fresno State.”
Are there any college camps you may attend this summer?
“Yes. I am planning on attending camps at UCLA, Sacramento State, Boise State, and maybe Utah.”
Do you compete in any other sports for San Fernando?
“I am on the wrestling team and I run track.”
Which events in track?
“The 400, 4×4, and 4×1.”
What is your best time in the 400?
“50.51.”
Last question. If a college coach reads this interview and wants to start recruiting you, what type of student-athlete are they pursuing?
“They are pursuing a hardworking student-athlete on the field and in the classroom.”
Trenton, thanks for your time today and good luck with the rest of your spring practices.
“Thank you.”
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Photo credit: Los Angeles Daily News; No. 44 Trenton Gill gets championship game sack
Photo credit: Hudl.com; Trenton Gill on the sidelines