2024 Interview with the Mad Scientist From Whetstone High School Shawn Rife Jr

 

Shawn Rife Jr.

Whetstone High School

I’ve played WR and TE on offense, and on defense, I’ve played DE, LB, and a bit of safety.

2026

5’9, 170 lbs

Heading into the 2023 season, what were your personal goals, and were you able to achieve those goals?

My biggest personal goal was to be the first team in all cities, which I wasn’t able to achieve due to a hamstring injury that caused me to miss a couple of games. I’m feeling better than ever now, and I’m confident to achieve my goals next season!

What was the high point of the 2023 season?

The high point would have to be our win against East. Going into this game, everyone expected us to lose, including our own fans. It was a very special feeling to prove everyone wrong.

What was the low point of the 2023 season?

I would have to say our loss to Northland A win against Northland and Centennial would have given us our first city title. It was a very intense game, and even though we didn’t come out successful, I was very proud of the team.

What are you going to miss the most from the 2024 class?

I’d have to say the passion and leadership they brought. It’s something about seeing the passion from the seniors that motivates me to give them 100% effort.

In covering many Columbus City League games over the last few seasons, it is easy to see that most teams have low numbers. As a football player, do you try to get your classmates to come out for the team? If so, how do you go about this?

All the time. It’s a very frustrating thing to have low numbers, not just for the players but for the coaches as well. I’m constantly asking people to come try out for the team and encouraging my teammates to do the same. 

As a player, what are your thoughts on playing on other nights than Friday?

Personally, I don’t mind. I’m a football player. I’m ready to play, whether it’s on a Friday night with a full crowd or a Monday morning with nobody in attendance.

What do you feel is the strongest part of your game?

I’d say my strongest part is my hunger and drive. You can coach speed and strength, but you can’t coach will to work. I think that’s something a lot of people lack. My goal is to be the hardest worker in the room at all times.

What do you feel that you need to improve on the most to be a better player this season?

On top of really focusing on getting stronger and bigger this season, I’ve really been focusing on taking my stretching and recovery seriously. Being injured last season was something I never wanted to feel again. It’s a very sick feeling not being able to be out there and perform with your team. As my coach always says, “The best ability is availability.”

What are you doing during the off-season to become a better player?

I’ve really focused on time management, which helps me plan my meals, workouts, and time for studies. I’m bulking up and am 10 pounds up this off season, as well as lifting around 5 times a week with some of my teammates. Me and my teammates have also been gathering up and going to Ohio state turfs to get field work in, which has led to great opportunities, like being able to play against both former and current college players, as well as semi-pro teams. I also plan on attending a lot more camps.

What are you most looking forward to this season?

I’m most looking forward to seeing some of last year's underclassmen, including me, step up and transform into the leaders of the team. Leadership can make or break a football team.

Where should the state finals be held?

I actually really liked the state finals being in Canton at the Hall of Fame stadium.

What is the best part of being a student-athlete at Whetstone High School?

The best part of being a student-athlete here at Whetstone is having coaches that truly want the best for you. It’s always felt like true love from my coaches. As a student-athlete, you’re going to have times where you struggle, whether it’s with confidence or just overall finding yourself. Coach Hightower has always been there for me in times of struggle and has made me feel like he genuinely wants the best for me. He’s not just in it for the wins; he’s in it for the kids as well. 

Who is your role model?

I would have to say my father. He’s been through a lot of stuff in life. More than anyone I’ve ever known. Yet he is the strongest man I know. He’s taught me everything I know, and without him, I wouldn’t be half the person I am today. 

What is your favorite class or subject?

I’d have to say anatomy, physiology, or biology. I’m really interested in the human body and learning how it functions. In a way, it also helps me as an athlete.

What is your go-to snack?

If I’m trying to keep it healthier, then I love fair life and muscle milk protein shakes, but if I’m going for a treat, then probably sour skittles.