2024 QB Ryan Wetch: Rapid City, SD

For our next diamond in the rough featured athlete, we take a trip up north to Rapid City, South Dakota. Rapid City Central High School is home to the Cobblers and a 6’4, 190 pound gunslinger by the name of Ryan Wetch. The classes of schools there are different, as his school’s class, 3A, is the largest classification in the state. As a South Dakota 11AAA Preseason All-State Team, Wetch has many aspects to his game that stand out. He was awarded Team MVP and the most improved player overall as well. When watching his film, there is one thing that is very evident: accuracy. He always puts the ball exactly where his receiver is going to be, and that is a great quality to have. He is a three sport athlete as well, as he competes in basketball and track, along with football.

What age were you when you started playing football and why did you continue to do so over the years?

“I was 9 years old when I started playing football and I continued to play for the love that I have for the game.”

Do you play any other sports or is or only football for you?

“I also compete in track and basketball.”

What are you biggest strengths as a quarterback?

“My biggest strengths as a quarterback is the accuracy I have when slinging the football.”

What would you describe as a good teammate?

“A good teammate is someone who has your back and always shows up for the team and not themselves.”

What are some things you can do to improve as a QB?

“I need to learn to not think as much and just play with the talent I have as a quarterback.”

How has the recruiting process been throughout high school for upcoming potential college

“Recruiting has been okay, with getting some solid D2 and D3 schools.”

Do you have any goals for this season? / What do you want to get out of this season?

“My goal is to lead my team to a post season appearance in 3A football.”

How does it feel getting some recognition/ recruiting from this far away from home?

“I think it’s cool getting recognition from this far away but I just don’t understand why me.”

Why would a college want you as their quarterback? / What sets you apart from the others?

“What sets me apart from everyone else is I haven’t had one thing giving to me. I am where I am today because of all the hard work I put in everyday, that’s what makes me better then everyone else.”

How is it playing at Rapid City Central? Is it a good fit for you?

“I love playing at Rapid City Central. Though we are not the best team statistically, our moral that we have there as a team is unmatched.”

Is there a quarterback who you embody your game after or watch to get some inspiration?

“I love watching Joe Burrow and Patrick Mahomes because I believe they are two of the best to play the game.”

How would your teammates describe you?

“My teammates would describe me as a dedicated person who plans on turning his dreams into reality.”

Biggest role model in your life?

“My biggest role model is my uncle, because of all the physical pain that he has went through in his life, I have never seen a smile off his face no matter the pain he has.”