Oklahoma Football: Interview with Choctaw 2021 LB Donnie Wingate
Written by Charlie Beuttel
Twitter: @charlie_cds3
Donnie Wingate is the type of prospect that every coach dreams of having on their squad. The 6’3”, 220-pound, after racking up numerous honors at the end of the 2019 schedule the defensive star has one more season at Choctaw High School before making the leap to the next level where he is ready to achieve collegiate gridiron glory.
Wingate spent most of last year at both defensive end and linebacker going against 6A competition, but will spend the majority of the 2020 season at the middle linebacker position. The Oklahoma talent has tremendous strength, footwork and athleticism while playing with great intensity. The class of 2021 recruit currently holds eight collegiate offers including several in-state schools while also drawing interest from other programs including Pittsburg State and South Dakota State.
The defensive play-maker has also attended several camps this summer including a Harding camp where he ran a 4.68 in the 40-yard dash. Not only does Wingate star on the gridiron but also is on the wrestling, power-lifting and track team. He currently holds a 3.6 GPA in the classroom.
In an exclusive Recruiting News Guru interview, I caught up with Donnie to talk about his junior season at Choctaw High School and get an update on his recruiting process.
Interview
Donnie, how would you grade your individual performance last season and why?
“A 7 out of 10, because even though I was a hard hitter, I wanted to be bigger, stronger and faster like I am now.”
What are your strengths on the football field?
“Smooth hips, I’m a play-maker, my ability to rush the passer and drop into coverage, and I’m a critical thinker.”
Did you receive any individual honors last year?
“State Farm Player of the Week, Male Junior of the Year, I won Oklahoma Big School 220-pound power-lifter in regional, All-Vype 6A-II first team, and was an All-American Bowl selection.”
What was your most memorable moment last year?
“Being the first team for Choctaw to make it to the playoffs in 60 years.”
What was your practice and workout schedule during the offseason?
“Due to COVID, I had to adjust my workout at home and in private gyms without my team. As soon as we were able to we started a Performance Course on the field and I also ran and worked out at my gym at night. I did not take any time off.”
What are you working on the most this offseason?
“Speed, explosiveness and seeing the field better in my new position at middle linebacker.”
What area of your game have you seen the most improvement in since the start of last season?
“All of it. Overall, I have worked really hard to improve my game in every aspect.”
What are your maxes in the weight room?
“My maxes are 500 at squat, 550 at deadlift, 340 at bench, and 285 on clean.”
Is there an NFL player that you try to model your game after?
“I like Ray Lewis because he is a dominant linebacker, but I try to watch several players and their techniques.”
Which schools have offered you at this time?
“Morehead State, Washburn, Oklahoma Baptist, Southwestern Oklahoma State, University of Central Oklahoma, Harding University, and Lawrence Tech.”
What other schools are showing you interest at this time?
“South Dakota University, Lamar University, Emporia, Concordia, and Hendrix.”
Have you been to any camps or college visits?
“I will attend the Top 100 camp, scheduled for September 19. I’ve also attended a Top 200 camp, a Harding Camp, and a Junior Day camp at OBU and at Pittsburg State. For college visits, I have been to Harding, SWOSU, UCO, and virtually I’ve visited South Dakota and Pittsburg State. I’m scheduled to attend the All-American Bowl in December.”
Do you play any other sports in high school?
“Wrestling, powerlifting, and track. On the track team I participate in the shot put and 100 meter.”
What is your favorite subject in school and why?
“Science, because It is interesting and I like the chemistry side of things.”
What do you like most about playing at Choctaw High School?
“The brotherhood and the atmosphere that everybody brings.”
Who has had the biggest impact on your football career?
“My mom.”
Looking ahead to the 2020 schedule, what game are you most looking forward to playing?
“Bixby, because the level of competition that they bring to the table.”
Do you have any goals for your senior season?
“I want to be a leading tackler in the state and help carry my team to the state championship
Do you have a favorite quote or Bible verse?
“Luke 6:38 – Give and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”
Thank you for your time and good luck in your senior season.
“Thank you, sir.”
Photo credit: Lindsay Tesio Photography; Choctaw LB Donnie Wingate (2019) and at Central Oklahoma (2020)