Early dismissal

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Serena Omangi

Jason Williamson will be headed to the University of Minnesota- Twin Cities and will suit up as a gopher

Mason Rhoades, Writer

With talk of college, many seniors are getting nervous about leaving. But, not Jason Williamson. On Jan. 17, the senior running back for the Owatonna Huskies will be graduating early and moving into his dorm at the University of Minnesota- Twin Cities. Williamson has been playing football for the past nine years of his life. It has molded him into the person he is today and has been a key role in deciding his future college plans. Talking about his decision to leave early, Williamson said, “I wanted to get a head start on my college football career and get a feel for how everything works.” Williamson starts classes Jan. 22 and will begin spring practice for the Gophers on Mar. 6.

Throughout his high school football career, Williamson has shattered previous Husky records and has caught the attention of many college coaches. Before making his decision to go to the U of M, Williamson was being recruited by the University of Iowa, University of Wyoming, North Dakota State University and South Dakota State University. This season Williamson has 222 carries for 2318 yards and 34 touchdowns. He is the focus of the fans and defenses alike.

Jason’s style of running makes him very difficult to tackle. He has so many options on how he wants to make you pay, and he’s so dynamic in space – he really is a nightmare for defenders.

— Coach Matt Skala

OHS has had many talented running backs in the past, but what makes Williamson special is said best by OHS running backs coach Matt Skala. Skala said, “Jason’s style of running makes him very difficult to tackle. He has so many options on how he wants to make you pay, and he’s so dynamic in space – he really is a nightmare for defenders.” This is proven by Williamson’s stats.

Williamson made his decision to become a Gopher during his junior year and officially announced his commitment on Dec. 21, 2017. Williamson is most excited about leaving early because he is prepared to take the next step in his life. Jason Williamson and the Owatonna Huskies take on the Chaska Hawks this Saturday at noon, in the first round of the state tournament, and also catch him suiting up in gold and maroon for the Minnesota Gophers next season.

Jason Williamson will go down in the record books as one of the most talented players in OHS Football history.