Darrion Green

Darrion Green (Photo from Twitter)

Darrion Green, a rising senior at Woodrow Wilson High School who is partially deaf, announced on Twitter that he has committed to play football at the University of New Mexico after he graduates in the spring.

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Green is one of Dallas Morning News’ Top 100 recruits, but his path to Division 1 college athletics has had more challenges than the average athlete. “It is very difficult because I can’t hear during the games, but it hasn’t affected the way I play because the team has created signs for the plays and it is easier that way,” Green says. “I follow directions from the coaches and read lips when I need to.”

On his Twitter announcement, Green recognized the “great opportunity to open the door for the deaf community and make them proud.”

Green, a three-star recruit according to 247 Sports composite ranking, had scholarship offers from 11 schools, including SMU, New Mexico State, Lamar and Prairie View A&M.

On why he chose New Mexico, Green says, “I was on the same page as the coaches, and they kept up with me every week.”

He also has family in Albuquerque, which was a plus. Additionally, Green is focused on academics. “I am not just going there because of the coach, I am going there for an education, and UNM has a great pharmacy program.”

Green’s goal is to be a starter as true freshmen next year, and hopes to play cornerback and return kicks on special teams for the Lobos. “They like my skills and speed, and I am the right fit for their program,” Green says.

Green will lead the 2017 Woodrow Wilson Wildcat football team as a defensive back and running back when the season begins this fall. He is looking forward to leading his team to their goal of winning state, and will follow up a great junior year where he played defensive back and running back, rushing for 341 yards and 6 touchdowns.

Green, who attended J.L. Long Middle School and is part of the Dallas ISD Regional School for the Deaf at Wilson, says his motto has helped him push through to achieve his goals: “Never Give Up.”