2024 interview with Weymouth Sanders from Westland High School

 

Name: Weymouth Sanders

Westland High School 

Positions played:DE/DT

Graduating year:2025

Height and weight 6’5 245

How long have you played football, along with the reasons you continue to play?

I first started playing in 7th and 8th grade; I didn’t play in the 9th grade year, then I played in 10th and 11th. The reason I play football is because I love being physically active, being a leader, connecting with people, and getting work done. Football was originally a backup sport for me to condition for basketball, but as I continued to play, I’ve learned to love and appreciate the game.

What was the high point of the 2023 season for you?

I got my teammates to buy in and set the tone on the defensive line so we could have a great night. Even though we lost, we were still proud because we were flying around and making plays left to right all night. This also taught me to love the sport even more.

With this being your final high school season, are you preparing any differently than you have in the past?

My preparation this offseason is way different than any before. I’ve gained weight, spent countless hours in the gym, got work in with trainers 1 on 1, uplifting teammates, pushing teammates, and getting everybody to buy in. Really a mental year, not focusing on it being my last year but making it more of a point to prove season. This also drives me because I know the work I put in will pay off one day.

What are your goals for the 2024 season?

My goals are to have a great season, pushing my team to greatness and learning a lot, really just getting my name out there, and hopefully getting my hands on a D1 offer. That’s really a goal I had before the season, but patience is key, and I just have to keep working.

Most people who follow football have some understanding that the game is won or lost on the line. As a lineman, how personally do you take a loss?

Even though going from the defensive end to the offensive and defensive lines is a hard process, it really gave me an understanding of the importance of doing everything right and not missing a rep when there is one. Personally, when I take a loss, I go back and look at what I did wrong, what we did wrong, and how to get better.

Who is the toughest teammate to square up against in practice?

I would have to say Xander Duarte. He’s really skilled; you can put him anywhere, and he’ll compete like he’s been there. We push each other in every practice because we know it’ll make us better.

What is the strongest part of your game?
 
My length, reach, quickness, and size in general definitely played a big part as a defensive lineman. I really got to abuse that advantage last season and am definitely looking forward to using it more, especially with the amount of work I’ve put into it.

What is the most rewarding part of playing on the line?

Seeing the little things you do creates big outcomes.

What is the toughest part of being a lineman?

Definitely the criticism you get from everyone; small mistakes get noticed more than the big plays you make. It teaches you to make fewer mistakes, like on defense, not jumping off sides, not missing a tackle, and on offense, not falsely starting or missing a block—little things that will add up and get you noticed.

Have you gone to any camps to improve your game? If you have, could you tell the readers which camps and what you learned from them?

I have camps coming up on the 14th and 18th of June, but I’ve been to a University of Toledo camp with a really good atmosphere and really learned a lot from coaches 1 on 1, like things I can apply to my season. I’m ready to come back, compete even harder, and prove myself. 

Who is the toughest teammate to square up against in practice?

I would have to say Xander Duarte. He’s really skilled; you can put him anywhere, and he’ll compete like he’s been there. We push each other in every practice because we know it’ll make us better.

Are you hearing from any colleges? If so, could you name one or two of them?

University of Toledo, Youngstown State University, and Ohio Dominican University.

Outside of sports, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I like spending time with family and friends.

What is your go-to snack?
 
m&m trail mix or Chex mix 

Who is your favorite athlete?

My favorite athlete all around is my sister, Onyinyechi Sanders, who just committed to Indiana East University for basketball. Watching and being a part of her journey really inspired me to keep working hard and taking it to the next level.