February 26, 2024
By: Dwayne Page
Outstanding senior defensive lineman Wil Farris, who blazed a trail over his award-winning four-year football career at DCHS, will be aiming to do the same starting next season at the college level.
Accompanied by members of his family, coaches, and fellow Tiger football players at DCHS, Farris signed a letter of intent Monday with Cumberland University in Lebanon to play for the Phoenix.
Farris will graduate from DCHS in May as a member of the Class of 2024.
“I just felt like it (Cumberland University) was the right place for me,” said Farris. “I visited there last spring and again in the fall and I really liked it. I fell in love with the campus and the coaches are great too. I’m just really excited about this next chapter in my life. I plan to play on the defensive line for the Phoenix football team and as for my studies, it will be in criminal justice.”
Tiger Coach Steve Trapp said he is proud of Farris, who is joining a long list of talented players who have gone on to continue their football career in the college ranks after playing for him.
“Wil had a couple of different opportunities where he could have chosen to play but at the end of the day he decided to go to Lebanon and play for the Cumberland Phoenix. We already have other guys who have gone down there too,” said Coach Trapp.
“It’s a school (Cumberland) that got on Wil pretty early. They came down to see him last spring and summer and kept tabs on him. Wil seemed to enjoy the vibe they gave off and made his decision to go there and play,” said Coach Trapp.
“Wil was a four-year starter for us,” Coach Trapp continued. “He had played defensive end and left tackle and during his four years with us he always won some kind of award every single year and was named an All-Region player every year. Wil has been a decorated player for us and a good player, and we feel Cumberland is getting a very quality young man and a quality football player in him,” added Coach Trapp.
Farris said a highlight of his high school football career was as a junior in a homecoming game against Livingston Academy when he scooped up a wildcat fumble and scored a touchdown for the Tigers on a 25-yard run. DeKalb County went on to beat Livingston Academy that night 48-0.
Although he also played on the offensive line, Farris said he enjoyed playing as a defensive lineman more and that’s what he became most recognized for on the field.
In his freshman year, Farris was named Newcomer of the Year at the team awards banquet and made the All-Region 2nd Team. As a Sophomore, Junior, and Senior, Farris won the team defensive lineman of the year award and made the All-Region 1st Team.
” My high school football career has meant a lot to me,” said Farris. “Everything I’ve learned from the coaches and players and the memories and friends I’ve made have been great. I am honored and blessed to have had this opportunity,” added Farris.