Dylan Jemtegaard: Why I Chose Cal

Hi Cal fans, my name is Dylan Jemtegaard. I live and play in Yelm, Washington, a small town a couple hours south of Seattle. I’ve also competed in varsity track my 4 years at Yelm High School, and varsity football three of the four years.

My dad enjoyed playing sports in high school, but most of our family’s athletic background came from my mom, who was a varsity letter winner in her respective sports. My mom really got me into track and field, but I’ve always found more fun in the team atmosphere of football.

My first year of football was the fall of my 6th grade year, starting track a year afterward, and I’ve played ever since and I’ve played offensive line since the very first day.

My favorite thing about football is how aggressive of a sport it is. The position group that I play in requires a tenacious attitude and a chip on your shoulder. Football is one of the only sports I’ve found that allows so much physicality, play after play.

As an offensive lineman, burying the man across from you is always the goal, but the satisfaction of doing so never grows dull.

Participating in the state playoffs my sophomore and junior years consecutively was incredibly memorable, and stands as one of my dearest achievements. Aside from that, receiving my scholarship offer from Cal is, and likely always will be, one of my favorite memories ever.

Making the decision to end up at Cal was, quite frankly, one of the easiest decisions I’ve really ever made. Cal has prestigious academic programs, high-achieving academic attitude, along with an up and coming football team and coaching staff and a beautiful location.

I could go on and on.

In terms of my recruiting process, no schools checked all the boxes for me like Cal did. I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity.

My relationship with the coaching staff is incredibly familial. In regards to my recruiting process Cal’s coaching staff focused on elements of development academically and athletically. It didn’t take a lot for me to be fully sold, but they set themselves apart with the amount heart and effort they contacted me with. The process with Cal was extremely personal, and the connection with Coach McClure came naturally.

Academically, I’m incredibly excited to earn a degree from a world class university. To know the education I’m receiving is top notch not only provides security for me, but for my parents and family, as well.

Athletically, I’m beyond excited to take my craft to the next level. I really look forward to developing and growing in such an excellent program and school.

As for the future, my current plan is not yet definite but I plan to study a mixture of business and engineering. Like any other football player, the ultimate goal in life is to get that big NFL contract. Cal elevates that goal by not only providing opportunity through a large platform, but also incorporates structure through strong academics, should I pursue a future in my study.

Go Bears!