Virginia Tech-bound linebacker Devin Vandyke has assumed a big-time leadership role on the South County (Lorton, VA) varsity football squad this season. A prime example came after his team’s first game, a 7-0 loss to Hayfield, when Vandyke and other senior leaders held a team-only meeting.

“I was talking a lot. I was fired up,” he said. “I said we’re not going to waste all the talent on this team. We’re going to do big things. Anybody in here not ready to fully commit shouldn’t play. Within three weeks, 10 guys quit. I guess it worked out, because it shaped the actual core of the team. I want to be working with people who want to work.”

The Stallions would drop games two and three but have reeled off five straight. And, heading into Friday night’s contest against Annandale, South County is tied atop the Patriot District standings. On the year, the 6’1″, 210-pound Vandyke has accumulated over 70 tackles, four sacks, close to 10 tackles for loss, and three forced fumbles on defense. He also has four blocked field goals.

A Mike linebacker for the Stallions, Vandyke has one primary focus heading into each game.

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