By Matt Mauney | Associate Editor
Durant High defensive end Dontriel Perry is quickly establishing himself as a dominant force on the Cougars’ defense. The junior has 49 tackles on the year and leads the team with six sacks, including one to end the game last week against Tampa Bay Tech.
Have you been playing football long?
Three years
What got you into football?
My older brother was playing, and I always wanted to get out there but never had a ride. My brother got me to come out.
How long have you been playing defense?
Just this year
What’s your favorite part of playing defensive end?
I really like to pass rush.
What’s your progression been like in the adjustment to the position?
First, I started off not good at all. I was at tight end at first and then moved to defensive end. The coaches told me that if I did well, that this would be my position, and I showed out.
What was the hardest adjustment for you?
Getting blocked. I wasn’t used to that.
This defense has been really strong this year. What do you credit to the success of this defense?
We play as one. You can’t go without heart, and that’s what defense is all about.
In your first year playing varsity ball, what was it like going 10-0 in the regular season?
I went undefeated JV year, but going undefeated with varsity is something. When we beat King in the final regular-season game, I was shocked to think, “Wow, we’re 10-0.”
After getting your first playoff win last week, what was that like?
It gave us more confidence, because not everyone thought we would beat Tampa Bay Tech, and we did.
What’s it going to take moving forward to continue succeeding?
Just hard work and dedication. That’s what it’s all about.
What did you take from the Newsome game earlier this season, and what will it take to get another win this Friday?
I have to watch out for Will Worth. He’s a great athlete. He’s one of the main people I’m focused on.
I know you play basketball, as well. How long have you been playing?
I played freshman year but didn’t play last year.
Outside of sports, what do you like to do?
I really like video games. I’m playing “Call of Duty Black Ops II” a lot now.
