Interview: 2020 SR/SS William Camacho Talks Two-Way Roles with Chaminade in 2019
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Photo credit: Raymond Joyce Photography
Twitter: @RJPSports
The feel for William “Willy” Camacho’s game is the beginning of something pretty amazing unfolding before our eyes. Throughout the 2018 season, Camacho was the athletic sparkplug Bishop Alemany High School could put onto the field knowing the job would get done. The 5-9, 175-pound, athlete racked up 52 stops on defense at strong safety and helped the Warriors offense carrying the rock 15 times for 98 yards with three touchdowns and hauled in 17 passes for 212 yards. His speed and open-field abilities were further showcased on special teams taking five kicks back for 181 yards. All of those talents and skills for the rising Class of 2020 prospect will be on display with perennial California powerhouse Chaminade this season taking on Mission League competition.
In an RNG exclusive interview, I sat down with Camacho finding out how his offseason training with Formula for Speed has pushed his game forward and how he might be used throughout the 2019 season with the Eagles in West Hills.
Interview
Willy, you were an impact player in all three phases of the game last season. What was your weekly preparation like for a given game?
“It was all about working hard. My goal was to outwork any team I was going against. I would watch film, pay attention in practice, and go hard in the games.”
Your speed and quickness in space stands out. What is your best-timed run?
“My best 40-yard dash is a 4.5 I ran at school.”
When the ball is in the air, you have a knack for making circus catches look like an everyday thing. How do you expand your talents as a receiver during your junior season?
“It was new to me last season. I had not played slot or receiver much before then. I had to work for it. Anywhere the coaches put me, I was ready to work last season.”
On defense, you are a ballhawk and head hunter. How did that part of your game improve throughout the 2018 season at safety?
“It improved by me getting stronger and faster. Once I knew I was strong enough to put my power to the test, I showed people what I had.”
This offseason, you transferred to Chaminade. Where all might we see you on the field in 2019?
“To be honest, everywhere. I will be in the slot, at running back, safety, and a little bit at linebacker. It all depends where the coaches need me each week.”
You are playing multiple roles and on both sides of the ball, but how will your roles change from a year ago?
“I will get more love here at Chaminade. I have great chemistry with the quarterback here, Jaylen Henderson. I have been working running different routes with Jaylen in practice and outside of our practices. I think the ball will be in my hands much more this season.”
Did you work with a trainer this offseason? If so, how has that helped take your game to another level?
“I worked with Formula for Speed. They helped me with my speed. They also helped me get stronger and faster. I am always listening to them telling me what I need to do to get better, and it is helping me.”
Did you play 7v7 this offseason with a travel team?
“Yes. I played with Formula for Speed.”
How did the 7v7 experience with Formula for Speed take your game to another level?
“It helped a lot. I am now reading coverages better. Since playing slot was new to me, I was seeing different defenses and personnel; they helped me with that. My routes, getting in and out of them and running them crisper, all of that got better playing 7v7.”
What have you been working on with your game on offense?
“I have been working on getting faster and stronger. Last year, for me, I was on the slow side. I will be able to take off more and use my speed more this season. I am way stronger than last year and more powerful this year.”
And on defense, what have you been working on with your game over there?
“Covering. My speed is up for these receivers I will face this season. In this league, you cannot play around. There are some very good guys out here. I have to cover them and show what I can do out there.”
How is summer ball with the Eagles going?
“Good. We have been out there working hard. Coach Croson (head coach) is always pushing us to be the best we can. Our coaches do not allow us to slack off in practice. I know I am getting better with the coaching I am receiving. I am ready for this season.”
What are your goals for your senior year?
“My goal is to be better than everyone else when I step onto the field. I want to score five to seven touchdowns in the regular season – I really want two a game. I want to improve overall. I want to be the best I can be. I am working for that this season.”
Willy, it was great covering your skills and offseason workouts today. I appreciate your time and wish you and the team success with fall camp.
“Thank you.”