Drake Day has closed with his football career.
Almost.
Day, who grew up playing flag games in West Burlington, then played soccer in West Burlington and played for the West Burlington-Notre Dame High School soccer team for three years, ended up across the river after putting his name in the Transfer Portal had entered after spending a season as a quarterback at the University of Memphis.
Day is currently enrolled at Western Illinois University in Macomb and is in discussion with the Leathernecks coaching staff about joining the team.
Day, who had a ring from the Montgomery Bowl last season, is hoping to use his four-year eligibility to play at the Leathernecks.
“I spoke to the coaches in Memphis after the spring game because it didn’t look like I was going to get a lot of playing time with four quarterbacks ahead of me,” said Day. “I wanted to get closer to home so my grandparents and parents could watch me play and not have to drive seven hours. I put my name on the transfer portal and decided to move to Western Illinois. I talked to the coaches. ” over here trying to get on the team. It may not take until spring so I only hope for the best. I think I will be able to compete here. “
Day moved to Roland-Story High School for his senior year. He completed 63 of 125 passes for 839 yards and six touchdowns and stormed for 460 yards on 92 carries and scored eight touchdowns.
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Day spent the 2019 season on the Iowa Western Community College football team before moving to Memphis for one season.
While Day couldn’t see the field for the Tigers, he was able to learn some valuable lessons at the NCAA Division I school.
“They taught me to toughen myself and always work hard,” said Day. “Anything can happen and you must be ready when they call your number. You must keep working hard and learning as much about anything as you can.”
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Day, who was actually born in Macomb, feels at home on the Western Illinois campus. He urges a degree in business administration. He even hinted at a possible double major.
While Day misses being on a team and preparing for Saturday’s games, he’s making the most of his options. He trains every day and tosses a soccer ball with friends and family as often as he can.
When his number is called, Day will make sure he’s ready.
“It was very tough. Every day I miss it,” said Day, 20. “I hit the weights here to stay in shape. I go out and toss the soccer ball with friends. Sometimes I go when I’m too I’m home with my dad (Jay Day) on the field and throwing balls. My dad helps out as best he can when he has the time. It’s like when I was a little kid.
“I just have to keep working hard, being dedicated, being a leader, being accountable. I’ll let God take it over. God has a plan for me. I just follow him.
