Interview: Future Gamecock, Ryan Hilinski
Posted by Front Porch Football on Sunday, November 18, 2018 · 1 Comment
Those who don’t follow college football wouldn’t really think he was a US Army All-American. You wouldn’t think that he has NBC, Sports Illustrated, and countless other media outlets reaching out to him, trying to get an interview or soundbite. You definitely wouldn’t think he is one of the most talented quarterbacks in the 2019 recruiting class. You wouldn’t think those things because Ryan Hilinski seems more like the dude you hung out with in the cafeteria or shot hoops with after school. But to South Carolina fans, and many other college football fans, Ryan Hilinski isn’t just your typical recruit. He is another piece of evidence, and maybe the strongest one yet, that Will Muschamp is turning things around at South Carolina.
Ryan Hilinksi is widely regarded as one of the elite players coming out of high school this year. In fact, according to ESPN, Hilinski is the top-ranked quarterback in the country, the third best player in California, and one of the four best prospects coming out of the entire West Coast.
Front Porch Football was fortunate enough to catch up with the future Gamecock and ask him a few questions. We can personally attest that this is someone Gamecock fans can not only cheer for on the field, but off it, as well. He is an energetic, respectful, generous young man who will make the entire SEC proud. Best of luck, Ryan. We will definitely be rooting for you!
You had offers from Southern Cal, Ohio State, LSU — what made you choose South Carolina?
Family. Coach Muschamp and the whole staff made myself and my family feel like we were home. They helped my parents find a house and my oldest brother Kelly will be attending medical school at USC so it’s a whole family deal!
How would you explain coach Muschamp to those who don’t know him?
If I were to explain Coach Muschamp I would say that he is honest and loyal. He looks out for you if you’re willing to give him a chance and he always means what he says!
You think there will be a culture shock leaving California and living in the South?
There will definitely be some type of culture shock but I’m excited for all of the new opportunities!
Who is your favorite current Gamecock?
Jaycee Horn!
Is there a specific stadium you are excited to play in, excluding Williams-Brice?
Stadiums I would be excited to play in would have to be Death Valley and the “Orange School’s” stadium.
What’s the recruiting process like, and how active of a roll do you play in recruiting others to South Carolina?
The recruiting process is absolutely insane. It’s like a huge car dealership and you have to pick the best salesman and most reliable car. It’s been a fun ride but I’m glad it’s over. I recruit other guys for my class all the time! Need good guys around me to succeed.
Tell us a little about your family’s foundation and what Gamecock fans can expect from you and your family?
Hilinski’s Hope is a non-profit organization that looks to erase the stigma of suicide in student-athletes. We want everyone to know they are loved and cared for and shouldn’t be so pressured when in college. Gamecock fans can expect nothing but my best effort and best personality coming in. I want to be my hero when I was 10 years old watching college football and my family will be behind me 100%!
Front Porch Football
Great young man..great family..great cause..I think that this young man is teaching us ALL about what is really important in life…taking care of your fellow man!! Looking forward to watching Ryan accomplish great things on and off the field!!