Kansas Football: Interview with Osage City 2021 OL/DL Dane Whalen
Written by Charlie Beuttel
Twitter: @charlie_cds3
Osage City star Dane Whalen is trying to follow in his father’s footsteps and fulfill his dream of playing college football. The 5’11”, 285-pound, big man is currently being featured on the offensive line and defensive line for the Indians who have started the 2020 season 4-1.
During his junior season in 2019, Whalen had 112 total tackles including 33 for a loss and 10 sacks. Through the first five games of 2020, the Osage City superstar has 40 total tackles including five for a loss and six sacks. This tackle machine uses his quickness and power to explode on his first step and get to the ball. He also has great strength to blow up double-teams to make plays in the backfield on defense.
This Class of 2021 recruit currently has one college offer and is already garnering interest from several other schools including Ottawa University. Whalen not only stars on the gridiron but also on the wrestling team and track team. In the classroom, he currently holds a 3.4 GPA.
In an exclusive Recruiting News Guru interview, I sat down with Dane to talk about his career at Osage City High School and to get an update on his recruiting process.
Interview
Dane, how would you grade your individual performance in your senior season thus far?
I’d say a B+, because there is always room for improvement and I’m getting a lot better.
What are your strengths on the football field?
My knowledge of the game and I get off the line quick. My first step is quick and my explosion and strength are also some of my strengths.
What are your maxes in the weight room?
My max bench is 355, my max squat is 510, and my max clean is 300.
What area of your game have you seen the most improvement in since the start of the season?
My blocking technique and the ability to get into the backfield. I don’t get pushed around when I’m double-teamed on defense.
Is there an NFL player that you try to model your game after?
I’d have to say Aaron Donald (Rams) because I like his physicality and he has quick hands. I think he does a good job with his hands and footwork.
Do you have any college offers?
Bethel College.
Are you receiving interest from any other schools?
Highland Community College, Ottawa University, Southern Nazarene University, and Dordt University.
Have you attended any camps or combines?
Washburn Combine, Sharp Performance Combine in Salina, Blue-Grey Combine and last summer I was invited to a combine in Dallas, Texas.
What game remaining on the schedule are you most looking forward to playing?
Eureka because we think that will be for the district championship.
What is your favorite subject in school?
I like history and geography.
Do you play any other sports in high school?
I wrestle and throw discus on the track and field team.
What is your GPA?
3.4.
What is your favorite about playing at and attending Osage City?
I like the small town feel and the community is always behind you. You get close to everyone. You get support and love from the community. Our coaches are great and supportive as well.
Who has had the biggest impact on your football career?
My dad, because he’s always been my rock for football. He played and coached at the college level at Fort Scott Community College and then coached some at Ottawa University. I watch film with him and he’s always there to help me.
What are your goals for the rest of your senior season?
To keep putting up good numbers and as a team go for that first state championship for our program and to work hard for more college offers.
What do you want your legacy to be after you graduate from Osage City High School?
Being a good leader and picking up the young guys. I want to lead by example and I want people to remember that I was always a hard worker.
Thank you for your time and good luck the rest of your senior season.
“Thank you, sir.”
Photos credit: Gary Lowman; Osage City DL/OL Dane Whalen