Zane Ridgley is a 6’4” and a 245-pound senior defensive end at Fontainebleau High School, in Mandeville Louisiana. Zane has an explosive first step off the line along with a knack for navigating a path to the quarterback. Ridgley has the ability to go after the quarterback every pass play and if he is not able to sack his opponent, he will intimidate them. On the field, Ridgley is quick going after the ball and aggressive going after his opponents. Zane Ridgley is a player you want to single out on the field because he will change the game in a blink of an eye.
When did you begin playing football and what made you want to play?
I started playing football around eight years old because my dad and my uncle played college football and I looked up to them. Also, I remember being on the bus one day listening to the older kids talking about how hard football was. My thought was there’s no way these kids are tougher than me; so, I wanted to play as well.
What would you bring to a college program?
I would bring a level of leadership along with the character and the ability to raise up the people around me; followed by an overall positive mindset.
What did you learn about yourself last season, and would you have changed anything?
Overall, last season was a bit of a struggle. We went 3-7. So, it was not the season I really expected to have, but I learned I really am not a fan of losing – not only for myself but I feel bad for the other guys on my team because I feel like I let them down. I also learned I like to compete for my team and not just myself.
How has the lockdown affected your training?
For me, this lockdown hasn’t really affected me due to the fact I don’t really do a lot of high-repetitive heavyweights. I do more overall body weight with high repetition and explosive moves. I’ve been running around my neighborhood for cardio as well as having some free weights at home that I have been using.
Last year, what would have been your signature moment?
My signature moment last year was against Mandeville when we got a pick-six late we took the lead, so the opposition was trying to throw some Hail Mary’s and the quarterback climbed the pocket and threw an incomplete pass; the following play he dropped back instead of stepping up and I sacked him and forced a fumble which we recovered and helped seal the victory for us.
How would your teammates and coaches describe you?
My coaches would describe me as a very coachable player who takes direction well and I really try my best to handle criticism professionally and applying it. Even during a game, if I am told to change something in the next play, I strive to do what was asked in the following play. My teammates would say I am a pretty fun guy to play with – along with being a leader by example, not just by talking.
What are some expectations you have going into this year?
The goal always is to win the State Championship. For my team, at the present moment, would be to make the playoffs. Personally, I have yet to win a playoff game so that would be something special for me. My personal goal is to get more sacks than last season. I am going to get around 15 to 20 sacks.
What do you like to do in your free time?
Well, I like to read a lot actually. Also, I spend time with my brother watching TV. I enjoy golfing a lot. I hang out with our quarterback a good bit – he’s my best friend.
Describe yourself in three words.
Never giving up.
