Union Knights Football Team

By Cheyne Reiter

Full name: Dylan Reid McLaughlin

Date of birth: September 11, 1993

Football Position: Linebacker

When football career first began: 5th grade

Accolades: Two-time 1st team All-District LB as JR and SR; Two-time All-Academic District as JR and SR; 3rd team All-State LB Iowa Newspaper Association as SR; 3rd team All-State Iowa Preps LB as SR

Career Statistics: 126 solo tackles and 78 tackle assists totaling 204 tackles in his career, 26 of those being tackles for a loss. Recovered three fumbles on defense as well. Had three carries is his career for two yards as well as returning one kickoff for 14 yards his senior season.

Pregame routine: Listen to Five Finger Death Punch.

Favorite memory: Winning the 2011 State Championship.

What will you miss most about Union football? Hearing the fans and coaches cheer when something good happens.

Best advice ever given? If you make a mistake, make it 100 percent.

College interest: Wrestle at Wartburg or Coe

Recommendation for future Knights: Don't lead with your head.

Quote from Head Coach Joe Hadachek: "Dylan McLaughlin was an impact player for us on defense. When you look at the area we improved the most as a team, the defense sticks out. Dylan was right in the middle of that defense, playing great against the run while also providing great pass drops. He played when he was injured, he played when he was tired, and he led by example both on and off the field. We are going to miss him."