Friday, March 8, 2013
OL Risner finds a home in Big 12
By Damon Sayles
Dalton Risner (Wiggins, Colo./Wiggins), at 6-foot-4 and 290 pounds, is one of those athletes who can play anywhere on the offensive line. He intends on showing his athleticism in the Big 12.
Risner verbally committed to Kansas State early Friday afternoon and added to an already good day for the Wildcats. Risner was the second commit of Friday and is the third commit to pledge to Kansas State overall.
Risner, recruited to play center for the Wildcats, visited Kansas State for last week’s junior day and left Manhattan, Kan., beyond impressed. He defined Kansas State as a school that “had that ‘it’ factor.”
“At some places, you either like it, or you don’t. They really had what I was looking for,” Risner said. “It was a great feeling; I didn’t have that feeling at any other school. I told myself, ‘Why not commit now?’ I didn’t have any questions about it.”
Recruited by Taylor Braet and Charlie Dickey, Risner chose Kansas State over offers from Missouri, Wyoming, Arizona State, Tulsa, Northern Colorado, Colorado State and New Mexico State. He said he grew up watching Kansas State football and always wanted to play for the program. Kansas State winning a share of the Big 12 title this season certainly didn’t hurt Risner’s perception of the program.
“I picked Kansas State because of the family atmosphere and the work ethic there,” Risner said. “Bill Snyder is one of the most respected coaches in the NCAA. All the other schools wanted me, but Kansas State said I was No. 1 on their radar and needed me there. I felt so wanted, and that’s where I want to go.
“They’re in need of offensive linemen, and they’re losing big seniors. I’m a guy who wants to play early and step up at a young age. They let me know how much they wanted me. I had to commit there.”
In addition to playing football, Risner also plays basketball and competes in track and field at Wiggins. He joined offensive tackle Robert Castaneda (Round Rock, Texas/Round Rock) as Friday commitments for Kansas State.
