Interview with South Terrebonne Louisiana RB Cristian Wallis

Playing college football is a dream for many athletes all over the country. Cristian Wallis has the same dream and is doing everything he can to make his dream a reality.

Wallis was a star running back at South Terrebonne High School in Bourg, Louisiana. The senior has won many individuals awards in football and is academically eligible to play football at the next level but still looking for the next level opportunity.

The talented running back exploded last season to lead the Gators to an 11-2 record and a trip to the Louisiana 4A state quarterfinals. The 5’7” speedster rushed for an astounding 1,864 rushing yards with 29 total touchdowns. Wallis also used his elusive running style and breakaway speed to return several kickoffs for touchdowns last year.

In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, we caught up with Cristian and talked about his senior season.
In 2014, you finished 11-2 and reached the Louisiana 4A state quarterfinals what was your most memorable moment in your senior season?

“We fell behind 14-0 against Cecilia two minutes in the game and came back to win 45-21. I had three touchdowns and 215 rushing yards. Also in the homecoming game against Belle Chasse I scored four touchdowns and had a 90-yard kick return for a touchdown.”

What Individual honors did you earn last year?

“First-Team All-District running back, First-Team All-District kick returner, District 8-4A Offensive MVP, First-Team All-Region MVP, First-Team All-Region running back, and First-Team All-State.”

What were your thoughts on your overall individual performance in 2014?

“Coach gave us all individual goals and mine was 1,600 rushing yards and 15 rushing touchdowns. I accomplished my goals with over 1,800 yards and 29 total touchdowns.”

 

Beside running back what other positions did you play for your high school football team?

“I was the kick returner and I play a little defense at cornerback.”

What are your strengths on the field?

“My strongest strength is my reflexes. I also have great vision and speed.  When I watched my highlights I surprised myself with some of the moves that I did.”
Have you made any college visits?

“I went to Southern and was invited to watch a game on the sideline.”

What are you trying to work on during the offseason?

“I’m trying to get bigger and work on my size.”

Do you have a NFL or a college player that you try to model your game after?

“LaDainian Tomlinson has always been my idol. Currently I like Tevan Austin.”

What motivates you to give 100 percent effort on the football field?

“The neighborhood I grew up in. I’ve been playing football since the age of 5. The only thing I can see myself doing in life is playing football.”

Who has had the most influence on your football career?

“My running back coach Philip Livas. He played at the same high school as me then he played at Louisiana Tech. I watched him play growing up.  He gave me a chance to see everything.”

 

Hard to believe that a First-Team All-District running back, First-Team All-District kick returner, District 8-4A Offensive MVP, First-Team All-Region MVP, First-Team All-Region running back, and First-Team All-State player from the state of Louisiana who is academically qualified sits without a scholarship offer.

 

Written by Charlie Beuttel

Photo credit: nola.com; No. 1 Cristian Wallis