Interview: 5-Star 2022 DE/HB Wilfredo Aybar Updates Fall Camp and Recruiting
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
When the 2018 high school football season had ended, a freshman did the improbable rising up to the varsity level proving to be an impact player. Wilfredo Aybar made the starting roster for Cheshire Academy as a defensive end using his speed and strength as a tackle for loss and sack machine going against NEPSAC competition. The 6-4, 220-pound, athlete also played fullback for the Cats opening up holes in the run game and showing he can make plays in the aerial attack. The big season put in for the Connecticut area product earned him five-star recruiting status (247Sports) and six offers; Maryland, Miami, Michigan, Nebraska, Penn State, and Rutgers. With Aybar’s abilities to change the flow of a game, the list of top college programs watching his progress is sure to grow throughout the 2019 season.
With another big season ahead for Aybar and the Cats, I sat down with the five-star recruit to learn more about his offseason workouts with a quick update on his recruiting process.
Interview
Wilfredo, you were all over the field last season coming off the edge for the Cats. When your freshman year had ended, what did you feel were the strengths to you game as a defender?
“I feel like my get off is what helps me the most going against offensive tackles. Going on the inside against a bigger lineman, especially on run block, I can get better at that.”
You also emerged as a threat within Cheshire’s offense. Where all did you play on offense last season?
“I played H-back; it is like a fullback in our offense.”
Are you going both ways again during your sophomore season?
“Yes.”
What have you been working on as a defender?
“I have been working on my speed; that has been my No. 1 priority this offseason. I have also worked on my pass rush moves.”
Which areas of your game have you been fine-tuning on offense?
“I have been working on my hands, my routes, and blocking.”
How many offers do you have entering the season?
“I have six offers.”
Which schools are showing recruiting interest but have not offered yet?
“Florida, Tennessee, and Ohio State are showing interest.”
Will you get a chance to visit any schools this fall?
“Michigan, I definitely want to visit them. I may be visiting Penn State as well. I will go with my coach. Wherever he can take me I will go.”
How are the Cats looking in fall camp?
“I think we are looking really good. We are better than last year. I think we can go undefeated this season.”
The team has a big opening game against Hun on Sept. 7. What kind of game are you expecting from the Raiders?
“I don’t know much about them yet. We have been installing our stuff in practice.”
What goals have you set for the 2019 season?
“As a team, we want to make a bowl game. Individually, I want to earn All-Conference honors and improve overall. I want to improve as a leader this season.”
Wilfredo, I appreciate your time today and wish you and the team success this season.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Aybar family; Wilfredo Aybar