On Friday nights under the bright stadium lights, many aren’t just playing for football — they’re playing to put on a show. In hopes of receiving attention from the big-time schools, athletes tune into a zone that allows for the strongest and most confident version of themselves.
For most high school athletes, earning a single Division One offer is a dream come true. But for Deacon Schmitt (11), that dream has become a reality 25 times over.
At just 17 years old, Schmitt has become a sought-after recruit, catching the attention of huge programs across the country. Standing at 6’5 and weighing 320 pounds, his combination of size, football IQ and impressive blocking have made him a dominant force on the field that is desired by many.
Schmitt didn’t become an elite player overnight. From an early age, his passion for football sparked and quickly became a flame. Many hours of practice and workouts have helped him gain strength and be good at what he does.
“I started playing sports when I was younger and just fell in love with it. It was something I loved doing and it was something that I could feel was kind of my purpose so I just stuck with it. I fell in love with it and I don’t love anything more than football,” Schmitt explained.
As he grew older, his raw talent matched his relentless drive to improve, often spending countless hours refining his craft. Said drive was seen by one of his many high school coaches, math teacher and football coach Christopher Jones (staff).
“I think he’s had some really good leadership with young men to look up to each year. It’s difficult to be a captain in our program because it takes a little bit of time for kids to learn things you’re supposed to do and things you’re not supposed to do to be a captain or a guy that people can look up to,” Jones stated. “Those are the guys who have to be able to do the right thing when no one is looking which can be hard for young men … they can be influenced and are the kids that can be influenced by our vision for them which is to be a good community member.”
In addition to his team’s support, he has his family behind him as well, helping him pursue his football career. He said he’s felt the support since day one from his mom, dad and younger sister.
“We support D in any way we can,” Tara Schmitt, Deacon’s mom, explained. “He’s pretty laid-back and humble. We take him to his trainer in Parker and cook lots of good food for his nutrition. He has lots of support from all his loved ones.”
His breakout moment came during his sophomore season when he produced noteworthy stats, proving he could dominate against top-tier competition. Coaches and scouts quickly took notice, and the offers started pouring in.
“The offers started coming in December of his sophomore year. His first offer was from CSU,” T. Schmitt stated. “He called me and said Bill Best wanted to meet with him and when they met, he got offered. We were so happy for Deacon. Deacon works hard and he sees that it’s paying off. The first one will always hold a special place in my heart.”
Not only did the offers attract a lot of attention, but they also showed a noticeable change in his playing style, growth and character, which was seen by his family and coaches.
“The offers started happening last summer and spring and from there he just picked up his game … But with us, I think the biggest thing is that he hasn’t just been a man, he’s been a Windsor man,” Jones stated. “For us, that means you’re going to do things differently than other people and other programs. He’s stepped into that role of knowing what to do and what not to do. I’m excited to see what this group will do and how he’ll impact the younger guys … Hopefully, his shadow is big enough so other people can replicate it.”
Though he has received several offers and counting, his excitement never dulls. Unexpected schools have reached out — some more well-known than others but all have been significant and rewarding, D. Schmitt said.
“It’s awesome; it’s truly a blessing. I’m grateful to have been blessed with great people around me,” D. Schmitt said. “My family, coaches and anyone else I have around me. I’m very blessed in that aspect. So whenever I get another opportunity, its another blessing that goes into it.”
In addition to football, D. Schmitt has found that football has brought little to no change to his school life. Learning to juggle both has helped him find a sense of balance. He said having a specific and detailed routine helps.
“I mean, you have to go to school to play football so obviously without school you can’t play football. I have to go to school, do my stuff and get it done before I can get on the field,” D. Schmitt explained. “It’s always school first then football. You’re a student-athlete. Student comes first. You have to get it done in the classroom first before you can get on the field.”
Going hand in hand with his school life, mental health plays a huge role in how he performs. Finding ways to work around it and with his teachers have continuously helped him feel supported and confident in what he does.
“It’s been good. Just knowing that I have opportunities like this is really special and it makes you feel special. I’m very blessed and very grateful for everything,” D. Schmitt stated.
As for T. Schmitt, she’s eager to see where his football career will get him and how he will continue to use what he’s learned in high school throughout the rest of his life.
“It’s a fun and rewarding process being a parent of Deacon with all the activity. We have met so many great coaches and people throughout the process,” T. Schmitt explained. “So many great relationships have been built with coaches and recruiters from each school. I have nothing but positive things to say about each and every coach that has offered him. It’s going to be a tough decision for Deacon.”
