Interview: 2021 Cathedral Catholic ATH DJ Justice Talks Season and Playoffs

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

During the 2018 season, Cathedral Catholic has gotten after opposing Division I California teams the old fashion way, with a hard-nosed defense, a tough running game, sound fundamentals, and going to the passing attack as needed and to keep defenses honest. The Dons have rolled through the year with a 9-1 record quickly righting the ship after a 19-7 Week 1 loss to area rival La Costa Canyon. The offense has been a well-oiled machine averaging 34 points per contest with a defense suffocating the opposition to an average of 10 points each time out. One of the reasons for the Dons success on both sides of the ball in 2018 has been the play of Class of 2021 receiver/defensive back DJ Justice.

Season stats have not been released for the Dons, but suffice to say that the 6-1, 175-pound, athlete is making an impact in all three phases of the game adding punt returning duties to the growing list. In an RNG catch-up interview, I got a few minutes with Justice ahead of the Dons opening playoff game against Carlsbad for insight on the showdown with an overview on his sophomore campaign.

*Click link for Aug. 6, 2018, RNG interview with DJ Justice 

Interview

DJ, the Dons pulled together for a fantastic 9-1 regular season. What was the ride like week to week for you guys?

“Our first game was a bad game. We were not fully together as a team, but we learned. We learned that if we do our job and play together, we will win. We’ve stayed together as a whole since our first game.”

What has been the mindset of the team throughout the season?

“We know how bad we practiced that first week, we don’t want to do that again. Our goal is getting to state. We know what it takes to get there now.”

The offense average 34 points per game, what has been clicking so well for you guys on that side of the ball?

“We have a really good back in Shawn Poma and our line is good. If teams feel they have our running game stopped, we can go to the passing game with DJ Ralph (quarterback), Zion Sorani and I.”

How did the 2018 season go for you personally?

“It was slow at the beginning, but I showed our coaches what I can do. Towards the end of the season, I am getting more opportunities in the passing game and some on punt returns. I’ve had some long passes hauled int.

Where did you see the biggest improvements in your game as a receiver?

“My speed, I am a lot faster. From last season, knowing where to run my routes instead of just running them. I am adjusting to the defense and playing better.”

Is there an area of your game, by no one’s fault, that did not get to be showcased regularly that might get overlooked when watching your season reel?

“My strength. I may not be the strongest, but I am not backing down from anyone. I am breaking tackles and my blocking is good.”

You mentioned getting an interception a minute ago, where all are you playing on defense this season?

“I am playing corner and free safety. I have played three games on defense coming up with five interceptions and three pick-sixes.”

Wow. Do like playing defense?

“Yes. I love it. I like being on the defensive side but I feel I make a bigger impact at receiver.”

You might be setting yourself short. Three games with five interceptions and three pick-sixes is pretty amazing.

“Thank you.”

Which college are showing interest in you during your sophomore season?

“I am receiving interest from Montana, Notre Dame – camp invite, Washington State, and San Diego State.”

Back to the ongoing season. The Dons closed up the regular season with a big win over Point Loma, how will that victory help push the team forward when you face Carlsbad (6-3) on Friday?

“We have a lot of confidence going into the game. We will not take them lightly. We know that we have to keep playing the same way and keep the same energy going throughout the playoffs.”

What kind of game are you expecting from the Lancers on Friday?

“I expect them to put up a good fight. They have receiver Asa Turner, a Washington commit. They will give it all they have – it is the playoffs. But, I think we can come out with the win.”

DJ, great catching up with you today. I appreciate your time and good luck in the playoffs.

“Thank you.”

Photo credit: Flicker.com; DJ Justice in action