ALIQUIPPA, Pa. — Kwantel Raines, the top WPIAL defensive prospect in the Class of 2018, has sent his National Letter of Intent to West Virginia University.
Raines, an Aliquippa senior, is projected to play linebacker or safety with the Mountaineers, and the four-star prospect is one of the highest-rated players in West Virginia’s class.
Pittsburgh Sports Now caught up with Raines right after he signed his letter of intent at Aliquippa High School Wednesday morning.
PSN: Does it feel good to have this part over with?
Raines: It’s a fun process, but it’s over now. I don’t have to go through all that talking to all the coaches, I can just focus on school and focus on working on my game and playing at the next level.
PSN: What have the last few days been like?
Raines: It was a dream come true. As an athlete, you always dream about playing at the next level, so being able to sign my National Letter of Intent, it’s a big day.
PSN: What are you excited about, looking forward to West Virginia?
Raines: I’m excited about going out there, trying to play early and trying to compete for a job, because I’m considered a rookie again. But I’ve been playing football my whole life, so football is football.
PSN: What does this mean for your family and the people closest to you?
Raines: It’s a big day for them, too, because they’ve watched me go through the process. They’ve seen other people go through it, but it’s different when you go through it by yourself with your family.
PSN: What is the next big date you have circled on your calendar?
Raines: My first day of practice and my first actual game. I’m looking forward to seeing where I’m going to end up.
