2024 Interview with Clarion University commit and Mechanicsburg Area Senior High (PA) Davon Hutchinson

 

Davon Hutchinson

Mechanicsburg Area Senior High

Defensive Tackle & Defensive End

2024

Clarion University 

Heading into the 2023 season, what goals did you set for yourself, and did you achieve those goals?

The main goal I set for myself was to have at least 60 tackles. I did not reach that goal when I was mainly playing defense tackle, but I got relatively close. Even though I didn’t get there, I was able to really improve my technique andIQ at the position of defense line. From squeezing down the line, to maintaining my gap, to working down the line of scrimmage to get a tackle across the field,. 

What was the highlight of the 2023 season?

The highlight of the 2023 season was probably beating our rivals at Northern. There was a lot going into that game because they were doing a lot of talking on social media, so it felt pretty good.

What was the biggest disappointment as far as the 2023 season goes?

The biggest disappointment was not making it into the playoffs. Not having a playoff experience all of high school isn’t the best feeling.

What mark do you believe your class left on the Mechanicsburg Area football program?

I believe my class really showed the underclassmen how to step up when needed. We were a very experienced team when you look past the starters, so there were 9–11 guys playing all four quarters of every game. Things like injuries pop up throughout the season, and that’s when we need those people that aren’t usually called on. I think we were able to set an example for them and really show them how to do that.

What are you going to miss the most about playing high school football?

What I’m going to miss most is the community of Mechanicsburg and that feeling you get when you run out on the field. I always tell my friends that I don’t play sports—there’s genuinely no other feeling like it. I’m also going to miss my team because I grew up with these guys playing football, so for that to be over is crazy. I’m excited to see what they can do now, though.

What were your feelings as you walked off the field for the last time as a high school football player?

I was feeling joy because we had won our last game. There was also a little bit of sadness because I grew up with the guys on that team, and it was finally time to let that go. But I also knew my football journey wasn’t over, even though I didn’t have any official offers yet. So there was some excitement there too.

Who was the best player that you have ever faced in a game, along with the team he played for?

Nobody comes to mind when I think about this question. As I’ve made more progress in my skills, it just takes more for me to qualify someone as the best than it would have before the season.

Who was the best team that you played against, along with what made them so good?

The best team we played against was probably Cedar Cliff. Looking back at the season, I believe there were a few teams we definitely should’ve beat. Cedar Cliff is the only team that had a real advantage over us, which was size. We were always the smaller team, and there are just certain things that won’t work when that is the case.

Looking at only the road games you have played, which stadium had the best overall atmosphere, along with why it was the best to you?

The stadium that had the best atmosphere was definitely Northern. When we were walking out, getting ready to run on the field, the whole student section (and probably some of the parents) were booing us. Which already got me turned up. But then they had fireworks going off during the anthem, and that put me on 100. One thing about me is that I love an away crowd that tries to get in your head. I play my best in those environments.

Staying with the road games, which stadium was the worst to play in, along with what made it so bad?

I can’t really say there was a bad stadium we played in this year; nobody’s was that bad.

Can you share with everyone a few of the schools that recruited you?

I was offered by Clarion and Saint Francis University. I was also talking with Kutztown and IUP in my recruitment process.

What made you choose Clarion?

What made me choose Clarion was mainly the coaching staff and the community atmosphere they have there. They reminded me a lot of Mechanicsburg and just made me feel at home.

What was the best and worst part of the recruiting process?

The best part of the recruiting process was probably making my commitment because I could finally settle down and not be all over the place. The worst part was probably the beginning and not knowing if I was going to get any offers.

Who are your favorite and least favorite college teams?

People always ask me who my favorite teams are for college and professional. I genuinely don’t watch anything that often except playoff games.

What scares you?

Something that scares me is possibly losing motivation to play this sport. But I don’t think that will happen anytime soon.

What is your favorite all-time sports movie?

Probably remember the Titans