2013 ATH in middle of Penn State country
Junior athlete Zayd Issah of Harrisburg (Pa.) Central Dauphin is busy preparing for a big playoff game this weekend, and will also take a visit on Saturday to check out a game. Issah is also located in the heart of Penn State country and discussed his thoughts on the current situation.
"I have been getting mail every day since September 1st," said Issah. "I went to see Penn State play Bama, Maryland play Clemson and this Saturday I'm planning on going to Rutgers to see them play Cincinnati. I really liked the atmosphere at the Maryland game."
Advertisement
Issah, who had been receiving regular correspondence from Penn State, was asked if that has continued since all of the recent allegations.
"I was actually getting letters from Coach Johnson, Vanderlinden and Coach McQueary, but I haven't heard from them since," said Issah.
The local junior gave his thoughts on the overall situation.
"It's just a really bad situation and I feel sorry for the victims," said Issah. "While it does change my view of the school, I'm still interested to see what steps they take to get back on track."
Overall, Issah mentioned that he has been receiving the most steady interest from Rutgers, Pittsburgh, Penn State, Michigan State and Maryland.
"I'm most looking for a program where my skills fit in the best and I can develop into a better player," said Issah.
Playing multiple positions at Central Dauphin, Issah will likely have a few options as to the position he plays at the next level.
"I don't have a favorite right now and most coaches tell me that they think I could play multiple positions," said Issah, who is 6-foot-3 and 210-pounds.
This Friday night, Issah will lead his team into the second round of the playoffs against Cedar Cliff, which is home to top junior prospect Adam Breneman.
"It's a good match up," said Issah. "We both have a little momentum and confidence coming into this game."
Just as he did during his sophomore season, Issah has played a major role in both the Central Dauphin offense and defense this fall.
"I got a lot more comfortable playing linebacker as the season went on and I definitely got better as a wide receiver," said Issah.
To this point, Issah has rushed for 956 yards and 13 touchdowns, while also grabbing eight touchdowns and 514 yards as a receiver on offense, and on defense has totaled 78 tackles, 11 sacks, one interceptions and two forced fumbles.