Canton McKinley's Kyelin West: A Sophomore to Watch

Canton McKinley sophomore running back Kyelin West eludes a Cleveland Heights defender during a week three matchup. (Photo: Chuck Cordes/Ohsfbmedia.com)

CANTON, Ohio - Running back Kyelin West has become a key player for the Bulldogs and within the county during his sophomore year.

In a skilled backfield featuring Xion Culver and West, along with a combination of Shad Davis and senior Issac Brooks, it creates a formidable running back unit.

West has accumulated 646 (unofficial) yards and scored five touchdowns at the mid-point of the season. "I work hard every day to be able to earn and maintain a high percentage of snaps," stated West.

His biggest performance occurred in a victory over Massillon Perry in the fifth week, where he recorded 192 yards on 13 carries along with two touchdowns.

I have my eye on the goal of 1,500 yards, pushing to be great each and every game

At the halfway point of the season, the Pups hold a record of 4-1 and remain undefeated in Federal League competition. Much of their well-balanced offense can be attributed to West's contributions. 

He believes that the team culture established by first-year head coach Renzy Parnell plays a crucial role in his early success: "Team culture is very important on having each other's back at Canton McKinley," said West. "Helping each other every day, doing our right assignments is everything it's going to take to win and become greater each week." 

Kyelin West (14) stretching with teammates DeeJay Britt (3), Treyvon Smith (82), and Derrick Gordon III (25) before their week three contest with Cleveland Heights. (Photo: Chuck Cordes/Ohsfbmedia.com)

Being a young student-athlete to carry such a large load, it's important to also focus on the mental health and body care of players throughout the season, "I make sure I take care of my body every week. I eat right and pay special attention to what I put into and out of my body," he elaborated to Ohsfbmedia.

At this rate, he is projected to achieve 1,200 rushing yards solely during the regular season, assuming he remains healthy and continues to receive ample playing time. This performance will position him as a leading prospect in the state as he approaches his junior year, potentially attracting the attention of numerous scouts. 

Currently, he is preparing to play their next Federal League opponent, Mark Geis' Green Bulldogs, who hold a record of 1-4 at the moment as they seek to build momentum heading into the latter half of the season.

West has a goal, "At this point of the season, I'm focusing on becoming better each week, slowing the game down and being very consistent at this point on is very important to me."