One to Watch Interview with 2021 Sierra Canyon ATH JD Sumlin

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

Tip of the hat to Sierra Canyon head coach Jon Ellinghouse. The Trailblazers are consistently a high-achieving team, known for winning, even as the ascend up California’s classification rankings. Another thing Coach Ellinghouse is doing a great job of is developing his players. Year after year the Trailblazers groom young talents for the collegiate ranks and have another one in the making in Class of 2021 athlete JD Sumlin IV.

Sumlin has had a football baptism by fire this season contributing on offense with 138 yards on the ground off 21 totes with three scores and has pulled in five passes for 106 yards. On defense, he has come up with eight tackles, seven solo, and has knocked away two hopeful passes. If that is not enough, the 5-11, 173-pound, athlete is also making a difference on special teams where he has returned five kicks for 117 yards and five punts for 92 more all-purpose yards.

The contributions have not been in vain seeing the Trailblazers post a 5-3 record with heartbreaking early season losses to Westlake (35-30) and Lawndale (25-22). Sierra Canyon reeled off five consecutive wins before playing in another thrilling game losing to powerhouse Calabasas 42-35. The Trailblazers have regular season games remaining against San Pedro and Paraclete before rolling into California’s Division III playoffs with a chance for some more statement wins.

In an RNG exclusive interview, I sat down with the rising Los Angeles area talent to learn more about his game and all that he does on the gridiron for Sierra Canyon.

Interview

JD, Sierra Canyon is once again one of the tougher teams in southern California. What is the locker room atmosphere like during the week and on game day?

“Week to week, we have a goal every week to come out play our best and get the win. We feel we are one of the best teams in the valley (San Fernando Valley). We are always fired up and ready to compete every week.”

The coaches are obviously high on your abilities on both sides of the ball trusting you in many ways. On offense, how are the Trailblazers staff utilizing your skills?

“I am a big part of the offense. The coaches have me lining up at running back, receiver and slot receiver. They try to get me in space a lot, that is one of my traits. They are doing a good job of that.”

What about on defense? Where all are you lining up on that side of the ball?

“They have me at corner. My coaches are trusting me to be out there as a sophomore.”

Which areas of your game have shown the most improvement on offense this season?

“My route running, knowing where to be to get open, and reading defense; our coaches put a lot of emphasis on that. I am getting into the holes better. As a running back, my ability to run the ball effectively and follow my blockers is improving. I am learning where they will be so I can make plays.”

On both sides of the ball, what are some of the things you are constantly working on in practice for the big games?

“We’ve been working on our explosion in and out of breaks, so the QB can read our speed. Running the ball, I’ve been working on my cuts and getting through the hole. But, I am constantly working on my hands, my routes, and the little details – especially on defense. I have better game recognition. Stuff like the down and distance, where to line up, and my spacing.”

You guys get San Pedro (3-5) on Friday, what kind of game are you expecting from the Pirates on both sides of the ball?

“They will be tough and athletic. They have big running backs. This will be an aggressive and tough game. We will have to fight for the win. We have been preparing all week for them. We are ready.”

I know it is early in your recruiting process, but have you started receiving any recruiting interest yet?

“San Diego State is showing interest.”

Any chance you might get to unofficially visit San Diego State this season?

“Yes. I have a planned visit to San Diego State for Saturday to see their game.”

That’s great. What has you excited about the visit?

“I am excited to see the atmosphere, to be on the field and seeing them warm up, and just being around it all. That is what I want, to play in college.”

In school, what are some of your favorite classes?

“History and English are my favorite classes.”

What is one talent or unique thing you do or have that most people do not know about you?

“I make beats and I rap.”

Very cool. Last question. About an hour ahead of a game, what is JD like and what all are you doing?

“I don’t talk to anyone. I am listening to loud music, thinking about the game, and chilling. I focus on my responsibilities for the game, my plays, and where I will be on the field. I’m not nervous, I’m just anxious to get out there.”

JD, thanks for your time today updating me on your season and good luck against San Pedro.

“Thank you.”

Photo credit: Sierra Canyon Athletics; No. 4 JD Sumlin vs. Westlake