Diamond In The Rough: Dominic Zepherin

Dominic Zepherin is a Class of 2021 cornerback out of St. Thomas More Catholic High School in Lafayette, Louisiana. He is 5′11″ and 175 pounds. Zepherin is a 4 star rated at an 8.2. He is very athletic and instinctive, with great anticipation. He also has excellent cover skills and is a fundamentally sound tackler. Zepherin led his team last year in interceptions as he had 6. He has an ACT score of 24 and a 3.9 gpa at St. Thomas More. He has been All-District, All-Acadiana, and All-State.

CHECK OUT DOMINIC IN THE 2021 DEFENSIVE BACKS

When did you begin playing football and was there anything specific that made you want to play?

I started playing football in third grade! Growing up, my older cousins and I always played in the backyard. I really wanted to keep playing after that.

What is your favorite thing about your position?

I would say my favorite thing about my position is the attitude you have to bring as a defensive back. You have to cocky but confident at the same time.

Do you have any specific goals for this season?

The big team goal is to win the state championship of course!

Has there been a highlight of your football career?

Whenever I think about one of my best games, I think of the rival game against Teurlings Catholic High School. I had three interceptions in one game. I feel as if that was a big point in my career.

How would your coaches and teammates describe you as a player?

I would say they would describe me as a leader. I am always trying to help out the other guys and other defensive backs to make them better. It is all so we can reach that one goal I mentioned, which is to win a state championship.

Have you ever played another position?

In middle school, I played receiver. I have actually started working with the receivers a little bit this year as well.

What does football mean to you?

Football is everything to me. It is my go to whenever I have problems. It brings me peace.

What is your favorite thing about being able to play football in this state?

I feel like football in Louisiana is different. This is the best place to play it as this sport is everything to Louisiana.

What would you tell younger players who are hoping to play high school football one day?

I would tell them to keep working as that is really the biggest thing. Your work ethic is important. You have to want it and set goals for yourself.

Do you have a favorite NFL or college athlete?

In the NFL, Jamal Adams for sure. In college football, it would have to be Derek Stingley.

What are you looking for out of college program and what would you bring to one?

Well, I committed to Yale a little over a month ago. I just want to bring my competitiveness and athleticism. I want to win four rings in four years and win the championship every year!

So has there been anything specific you have doing to prepare for the switch from Louisiana to Connecticut?

I took a tour of the campus before I committed so I have a feel for it what is there. Right now, I have just been building relationships so that I know people. Moving there is not a big problem for me.

What would you say are some of your strengths on the football field?

I would say my knowledge for the game for sure. That comes with film study as well. You have to be a student of the game as that really helps your play and performance.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

In five years, I see myself in the league. That is the main goal. If that does not work out, then thankfully I will have a Yale degree.

You mentioned you have a 3.9 gpa and a 24 on your ACT! How do you balance your schoolwork and football?

It is not that hard for me! I have been able to do it for the past three years. I just make sure to finish my schoolwork after practice!

What would you say are three words to describe yourself?

Competitive, confident, and leader!

How do you prepare for upcoming games?

On the field, we have one of the best offenses in the state for sure. Our receiving corner, Jack Bech, is pretty nice. He is a four star and I go up against him everyday. We have our quarterback committed to LSU. Off the field, like I said, film studies is very important.

How do you handle wins and losses?

Obviously, everyone loves to win! I try not to get down on myself when we lose. In the moment it is hard, but we just have to get better for next week.