Girard’s Star Offensive Tackle: Dylan Latell
Dylan Latell is a 4 Star recruit who plays Offensive Tackle at Girard High School. Latell is ranked as the 294th best recruit in the nation and is ranked as a top 30 Offensive Tackle in the nation as well. In addition, Latell is listed as a top 20 recruit in the state of Ohio and is listed as the #3 Offensive Tackle in the state of Ohio. He is committed to play at Virginia Tech.
Who are some role models in your life?
My biggest role model has always been my father. He coached me in every sport growing up, and those experiences shaped me into the player I am today. He’s now my offensive line coach, and he continues to set the bar higher for me every day. That’s why he’ll always be my biggest role model.
What artists do you listen to pregame to get you hyped up?
This actually shocks most people, but I mainly listen to Zach Bryan before a game. There’s something about the calm before the storm that gets me fired up.
What are the strengths of your game?
I’d say my biggest strengths are my length and leadership. I use my long reach to elevate my game, and I use my leadership to bring up the guys around me. It doesn’t matter the situation—whether it’s a younger player about to play in a big game or a teammate who’s stuck in his own head—I’m always there to help.
What is your favorite memory of your career?
My favorite memory of my career was beating Poland during my junior year on senior night. We went for two with less than two minutes left and ran the ball right behind me. Hearing the crowd erupt when we scored is something I’ll never forget.
Who is the best player you have ever played with or played against in your career?
The best player I’ve ever played with is Allen Hess-Cardona. I matched up against him every day in practice when I was younger, and to this day, I haven’t seen another offensive lineman beat him one-on-one.
What is some advice you would give to an aspiring D1 athlete?
Stack good days together. Never be satisfied, and buy into the process. Trust the process and learn to love it. Football is a game you have to truly love if you want to succeed.
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be?
If I could travel anywhere, it would be Australia. I’ve always loved the beauty of the country, and it’s definitely a place I plan to visit someday.
How old were you when you fell in love with the game?
I’ve loved football ever since I was a little kid. My dad has coached at Girard for the past 26 years, so I basically grew up on the football field.
If you could meet one sports hero, who would it be?
If I could meet one sports hero, it would be Rob Gronkowski. I loved watching him play growing up, and I’ve always admired his personality off the field. I think he’d be an awesome person to meet.
What is your favorite sports moment as a fan?
My favorite sports moment as a fan would have to be Girard vs. Licking Valley in the 2018 state semifinals. I was a fifth-grade water boy at the time. The game came down to the wire, and we pulled out an incredible win at the end. I’ll never forget how excited everyone was or giving my dad the biggest hug after the game.
