Lakeshore’s High Al Damion
Riles has signed with UL- Lafayette to play football for the Ragin’ Cajuns.
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| Al Damion Riles |
Riles
had verbally committed to Florida International University, but said things
didn’t work out, so he explored his options.
Riles,
who will be a safety for the Ragin’ Cajuns, said his decision came down to UL
Lafayette and Tulane.
“Tulane was close to home, but I wanted new scenery,” Riles
said. “I also wanted to go to a winning program. Tulane is building an awesome
program, but UL was bringing more to the table.”
Last
season, the Ragin’ Cajuns finished 9-4 overall and 6-2 in Sun Belt Conference
play, which was good for third. Arkansas State captured the league title at
8-0. The Ragin’ Cajuns took home the R&L Carriers New Orleans Bowl, topping
San Diego State 32-30 on a last second 50-yard field goal by Brett Baer.
Riles said he watched the Ragin’ Cajuns
play in the bowl game.
Last
season, Riles was a quarterback and kick returner for Lakeshore. He threw for
987 yards with six touchdowns and 10 interceptions. He showed off his speed on
the ground, running for 1,271 yards on 161 carries (7.8 per carry) and 22
touchdowns. Riles added a kickoff return to his scoring ledger, giving him 29
total TDs.
Riles
was a first team player at both positions and was selected to play in the 10th
annual Texas/Louisiana Bayou Bowl. The contest finished in a 23-23 tie. Riles
was a running back.
Riles
said he’s enjoyed his time in college so far.
“I
went to summer school and got some classes out of the way,” Riles said.
“Everyone here is so dedicated, which is what you need in order to do what we
do. The upperclassmen really look out for you.”
Riles
named Philadelphia Eagles’ quarterback Michael Vick his favorite NFL player and
the Eagles his top team.
Riles
plans on majoring in Kinesiology with the emphasis on athletic training.
