This week I caught up with RC Willenbrock '13, a member of both the Dartmouth lacrosse and football teams, to discuss being a two-sport athlete and the upcoming lacrosse season.
So you play both lacrosse and football for Dartmouth. Which sport were you recruited for?
RW: Well, technically I was recruited for lacrosse, but I was actually a more highly regarded recruit for football. I was recruited by some top football programs, but ultimately I really enjoyed playing both lacrosse and football, and Dartmouth offered me that opportunity. When I visited Dartmouth, I really liked the guys on both teams and the people at Dartmouth in general. The people and the ability to play both sports was what really made me decide to come here.
What are the differences between being a multi-sport athlete in high school versus college?
RW: It's definitely very different. In high school, I played lacrosse, football and golf. It was very manageable, and I would focus on each one when I was in that season. In college, it's a completely different ball game. In college there are a lot more outside obligations. The academic demands are much higher, but there are also just a lot of team events outside of practice team dinners, meetings, among other things. Balancing those outside commitments is probably the hardest thing.
You've dealt with some serious injuries throughout your career at Dartmouth. How has that affected you?
RW: The injuries have been extremely tough. I haven't been able to play football the past two years due to a back injury, but I am excited to get back on the field come next year. Being injured is a whole other time commitment. I am constantly going to the training room for rehab, and that in itself takes up hours of the week. Communication with coaches is tough as well. Having to constantly be talking to trainers, doctors and coaches about the injuries isn't overly enjoyable. Currently, I am sidelined for lacrosse because of the injury, but I am very hopeful that come this weekend I will be on the field against Georgetown University.
How has being off this past fall affected your performance and injury rehab?
RW: Obviously, going abroad is an awesome experience. Because my injury is a back fracture, time is the main factor. I went on Semester at Sea, which I would highly recommend, and had the ability to rehab on the boat. The boat had a workout facility complete with lifting equipment, treadmills, bikes, steam room and sauna. Not only did I get a lot stronger, but also I was able to complete my rehab exercises with ease. When Nov. 1 hit, I began training for lacrosse and actually got myself in very good shape by the end of the trip. There just wasn't a lot to do on the boat, so I invested my time in the weight room. It was unfortunate to miss the football season, but I had an amazing time and wouldn't have been able to do that otherwise.
What do you think the best part about playing two sports at the college level is?
RW: I definitely think it's the friendships and relationships you build. I've become really close friends with my teammates on both teams, and that's something that I wouldn't have if I just played one sport. I also get to meet a ton of new people, and that's something I really enjoy.
With lacrosse season about to begin, how's the team looking?
RW: We're looking really good. We had a scrimmage on Friday against Providence [College] and did extremely well. Last year I think we went to overtime with them, but Friday we destroyed them. We've got a new offensive and defensive coordinator that I think will bode well for us this year. The freshmen are contributing and the sophomores have matured a lot. Overall, the captains are doing a great job, and I think we're poised to have a great season.
