Kansas Football: Interview with West Franklin 2021 ATH Cameron Wise
Written by Charlie Beuttel
Twitter: @charlie_cds3
Every Friday night in the small town of Pomona, located 45 minutes south of Topeka, the community faithfully gathers together to cheer on the Falcons of West Franklin High School. Despite the down season in 2019, there is excitement going into this fall surrounding the team as a core group of young stars return including athlete Cameron Wise.
Wise was featured in all three phases of the game for the Falcons as he racked 511 rushing yards, 118 receiving and six total touchdowns while also adding another score on a kickoff return. On defense, he added 30 total tackles including in 4.5 for a loss and 1.5 sacks.
The 6’4”, 220-pound, play-maker has tremendous ball carrying ability as he uses athleticism and strength to break tackles whether on a handoff or after snagging a pass. Wise also possesses great footwork and leadership skills.
The class of 2021 prospect is currently drawing interest from several different colleges including Montana State, and it’s only a matter of time before more schools begin to take notice of this Falcon star.
In an exclusive Recruiting News Guru interview, I caught up with Cameron to talk about his junior season at West Franklin and get an update on his recruiting process.
Interview
First off, what are your overall thoughts on the 2019 season?
“The season was not the season we hoped to have, there were many adversities off the field that affected the whole team.”
How would you grade your individual performance in your junior season and why?
“I think I had a good season considering the record we had, but on the flip side, I’m my worst critic. While I feel I was a positive leader, I know that there are still things I need to work on as I approach this 2020 season.”
What was your most memorable moment last year?
“My most memorable moment from last year is the day I came back from my broken hand. I had an appointment on game day, and the doctor cleared me. I sat out the first half which was frustrating to say the least, but the second half came and I got a sack and a receiving touchdown which was a great feeling.”
What are your strengths on the football field?
“My strengths on the football field would be that I’m a positive leader, I’m good at picking people up when they have made a mistake and making sure they come back stronger the next play. Another one that has to do with my performance is being able to move with my size, and also being able to run strong and tough.”
Did you receive any individual honors?
“I received Offensive MVP and Overall MVP on my team. I also received second team All-League at full back, although and injury held me back from being able to accomplish first team.”
What is your practice and workout schedule like during the offseason?
“My practice and workout schedule includes lots of sprints and agility drills, and later in the day finishing out with a weight lifting workout.”
What are you working on the most this offseason?
“I am working on my footwork and speed. I would love to be able to have size and movement like Travis Kelce and George Kittle.”
What is your fastest 40-yard dash time?
“My fastest 40 is a 4.8.”
Is there an NFL player that you try to model your game after?
“Absolutely, I try to play like Derrick Henry. He’s one of the best, and when I get the ball I definitely try to play like him.”
What do you like most about playing football?
“For me I play everywhere. I don’t come off the field which is challenging, but it fits my personality great. Being off the field feels unnatural. I’m definitely used as an athlete, and at not one specific position. But my favorite position to play is wide receiver/tide end. There’s nothing I love more than running a route and catching the ball and building up my after-contact yards.”
Which schools are showing you interest at this time?
“I have a few different colleges that are taking to me including Montana State, Bethel University, and Dordt University.”
Have you been to any college camps?
“Last summer I went to my first college camp at Kansas State; it was awesome to measure myself against to other great athletes.”
Have you been on any college visits?
“I’ve been on one visit in-person which was to Missouri Southern. I also have some virtual tours lined up as well due to the Coronavirus.”
Do you play any other sports at West Franklin?
“I run track, and my favorite event is high jump.”
What is your favorite subject in school?
“My favorite subject in school is definitely ceramics. My teacher is awesome and I love creating things. No matter how awful they look!”
Who has had the biggest impact on your football career?
“I’m going to have to say my dad and my family. They support me and give me great insight into my game. They are also extremely good about making sure that football is what I want to do, not what I feel like I need to do.”
What is your favorite thing about playing at West Franklin High School?
“My favorite thing about West Franklin is my teammates. Those guys never fail to make me laugh at morning workouts and at football practice.”
Do you have a favorite quote or Bible verse?
“My favorite Bible verse is Ephesians 2:8 “God saved you by his grace when you believed, and you can’t take credit for this; it’s a gift from God.”
Thank you for your time and good luck in your senior season.
“Thank you, sir.”
Photo credit: Cameron Wise; West Franklin ATH Cameron Wise
Photo credit: Cameron Wise; West Franklin ATH Cameron Wise