Dominic Nankil, the newest Filam Division 1 Quarterback

Probably the most iconic position in the sports world is the starting quarterback position. Everyone knows that the quarterback is the pilot that can guide a team to an epic state championship win or the guy who falls short, bringing shame to their fans. Regardless of how the story ends up, the season always begins with all eyes on one single person, the quarterback. We have seen Filipinos in the National Football League (NFL) as dominant running backs, acrobatic wide receivers, and explosive defensive positions but we haven’t seen a Filipino quarterback… until now. 

Photo Credit: USD Toreros

Meet Filipino American, Dominic Nankil, a true freshman playing the starting quarterback position at the University of San Diego (USD). Dominic spent his high school years in Orange County, California, playing for Mater Dei Catholic High School, leaving his mark as a starting quarterback for 2 years, throwing for 72 total touchdowns and bringing 2 state championships to Mater Dei. Dominic was a 3 star prospect leaving high school as he committed to play in his own hometown for the University of San Diego.

Photo Credit: USD Toreros

Now a NCAA Division 1 starting quarterback as a teenager, Dominic is looking to bring his winning mentality to the USD Torerors. Not only as a Filipino American trying to go against the naysayers saying he won’t find success in the endzone but also making a name for himself proving to doubters that he is not “undersized” at the position. Entering college at 6’ 0” and 160 pounds when the average NCAA quarterback weighs in at about 200 pounds, standing at 6’ 1” (about a 40 pound difference), will Dominic be able to shoulder the weight of college football? I think so. 

In a close game against Colorado Mesa this past week, Dominic threw for 3 touchdowns, throwing for 174 yards and 0 interceptions. For those who might not fully understand those metrics, Dominic was a surgeon on that field by failing to throw an interception and keeping the ball in the hands of his teammates and not his opponents. Not to mention Dominic rushing for 22 yards, using his legs to move the ball, not just his arm. Not bad for someone who is undersized right? Throwing not one but 3 touchdowns is also an amazing feat in itself.

Although we don’t have much more information for this promising new star, we do know that he is destined for great things. The season is young, his future is bright, and more importantly we are rooting for him to leave his legacy at the University of San Diego. 

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Written By Niko Del Rey

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