After 10 years, hundreds of games and endless hours of practice, the time has come for senior Dalys Beanum to play his final season of high school football and think about his future. Over the summer, Beanum committed to a D1 university to further his education and football career.

Beanum had been offered four positions on various football teams throughout the country, recruiters from Kent State, Austin Peay, South Dakota State and Southeast Missouri State’s eyes all had been caught by Beanum over the 2018-2019 football season. All four schools jumped at the opportunity of having him play for their team. In the end, Beanum went with the choice that was suited for him, South Dakota State.

 “I wanted to get the decision out of the way so I could focus on playing to my ultimate ability for Millard West,” Beanum said. “South Dakota was clearly the best school for me for many reasons out of my previous offers.”

Beanum had visited the university during his junior year since he had been interested years prior. He was able to see what the school looked like and to get a feel for what it was like on the campus. He enjoyed the facilities as well as the friendly environment and had kept the idea of attending this school in the back of his mind.

“The coaches also had a big impact on my decision,” Beanum said. “They created exceptional relationships with my family since I was one of their top choices to play cornerback for the Jackrabbits.”

Keeping in mind that he had college recruiters watching him over the course of his junior year, Beanum’s coaches had high expectations for him on the field and continued to push him to play at his full potential.

“Dalys has watched the previous players that were in his position and has learned from them how to do things on or off the field and can now help with seasons ahead,” head football coach Kirk Peterson said. “He will definitely leave an impact on Millard West football because if you learn from him, you’re learning the right way to do things.”

Along with the support Beanum receives from his coaches, the teammates that he’s been playing with for the past three years have contributed to both his athletic ability and his commitment to the game. His teammates have been a major part of his high school football career. They constantly support him and encourage him to always do his best under any circumstances.

“He’s one of the best receivers in Millard West football history and even in the state,” senior quarterback Tristan Gomez said. “Wherever he goes he will be successful and work hard like he always has over the years I have played with him.”

Beanum will make his first appearance for his senior year at the game against Millard North on Friday, August 30th. He is hoping to put up big numbers throughout the season. Despite already being committed to a university, he will still work as he has in the past to prepare himself for what’s next in his football career.