Macomb Dakota High School had some great talent on their 2015 roster this year, reaching the Division 1 regional round of the playoffs, but ultimately being defeated by Detroit Cass Tech. Dakota ended their season with a 9-3 record. The season wasn’t what Dakota wanted at the end but it didn’t stop one athlete who made his presence felt all season and that was junior defensive tackle Brendan Siwajek.
Siwajek, a 6’3″ 255 lbs bunior, who finished the 2015 football season with some very impressive statistics, recording 40 tackles and 4.5 sacks.
Siwajek, who is called “Swat” by his peers, is what you call a blue collar football player. He is not afraid to create havoc for offensive guards and centers at the line of scrimmage. I asked Siwajek, what were his strengths on the football field? “I would have to say my physical strength, I have strong knowledge for the game, I am able to read and react to what is going to happen before it does. I work on my craft extremely hard, and my biggest strength is my ability to play alongside my teammates” said Siwajek.
With having the opportunity to learn more about Siwajek, I was able to learn about his biggest role model. “The biggest role model in my life is my father because he is continuing to show me every day how to become a man, a good one at that. Teaching me how to work hard to provide for my family when that day comes. It’s a bonus that as a former Division 1 athlete he is able to mold me into a great football player like himself. I just appreciate how he is always so positive towards me in a loving and critical manner” said Siwajek.
With goals being set for the 2016 football season, Siwajek’s goals are clear cut, “My goals on the 2016 season are to win a state championship, nothing less. And to be honest it’s not about the personal stats for me, as long as my team wins” said Siwajek.
Siwajek has expectations beyond just playing football at the next level. Siwajek plans on majoring in either nursing or business. Most student athletes have a difficult time with choosing their major the first year they are on campus. This didn’t effect Siwajek. Siwajek currently does not have a college offer yet, but he does have many schools he is interested in; such as Bowling Green, Central Michigan, Western Michigan, etc.
Exceeding expectations is not a task that many at Siwajek’s age can achieve. But Siwajek isn’t just a typical student athlete. He has a humble disposition and is willing to put in the hard work to accomplish his goals. With character and dedication, there’s not much that can stop what’s already in store for Brendan Siwajek.
Markel Metoyer, Journalist
Rising Stars