Iowa Football Right Fit for Ethan Aghakhan
Division I football programs thought enough of Ethan Aghakhan to offer scholarships. The Class of 2024 defensive lineman shined at Lincolnshire (IL) Stevenson High.
Aghakhan closely evaluated those opportunities. His mind kept going back to a campus stop when he was in 10th grade.
"I was fortunate enough to have received offers that were impressive," he told HN. "However, since my first game day visit as a sophomore, I knew Iowa was the place for me. Having this opportunity is a dream come true."
A preferred walk-on chance from the Hawkeyes was chosen ahead of scholarships from Western Illinois, Indiana State, South Dakota, Fordham, Holy Cross and Saint Thomas. Plenty of other programs showed interest.
"Iowa has an excellent defensive coaching staff that keeps producing great players, which is impressive. They also have a great history and culture that wins big games," he said.
Aghakhan shares principles with the Iowa program, which made him comfortable joining the group.
"Speaking of their core values, I align well with their hard-work mentality, community focus, integrity and being respectful. I want to be a role model and help inspire others to follow their dreams," he said.
The high school senior still is deciding on a major. He's leaning towards selecting the Tippie School of Business.
"My goal is to be an excellent student-athlete and manage my time efficiently between my football and school responsibilities. I'll take advantage of the resources Iowa has to offer to get acclimated to my first year to be successful on and off the field," he said.
Aghakhan (6-2 1/2, 250) twice has been named all-state. He's also been one of his Illinois' top discus throwers. His community has developed him athletically, academically and socially.
"I'm proud to soon be a graduate of Stevenson High School, which sets very high expectations on their students for academics and overall leadership. They're very forward thinking in their teaching style and offer a wide range of curricular opportunities and resources to help make everyone successful. Everyone genuinely wants to help you with your high school experience to be successful in college," he said.
When watching his senior football highlights, you witness an explosive athlete with a high motor. He's quick enough to chase down ball carriers and understands the importance of setting the edge. His skill set and body type keeps open doors to different position possibilities.
"I’m not certain what exact position I'll be playing, but I'll be completely flexible and excited to contribute. My focus in high school was defensive end, but I also played inside and outside linebacker. I’ll be completely comfortable in any role they put me in, and I'll be ready to give them all my effort."
