Sarasota Athlete of the Week: Dylan Wester

Dylan Wester is a rising junior wide receiver on the Booker High football team. Wester transferred to the Tornadoes from Palmetto High this offseason. Wester had 26 catches for 433 yards and a touchdown in 2023. He holds college offers from the University of South Florida, the University of Toledo and Marshall University. 

When did you start playing football?

I started when I was 5 years old with the Manatee Mustangs. My older cousins (Jaylen Wester, Lajohntay Wester and John Wester Jr.) all played football and I looked up to those boys, so I wanted to play, too. My first year I was not the best, I can't lie. But I put in the work and got better. 

What is the appeal to you?

Football is an outlet for me. When I'm playing, I can take my mind off anything. It's fun. I love it. It just brings me joy. 

What is your best skill?

I would say my speed and my route running. I take a lot of pride in my route running. I've worked hard at it. 

What have you been trying to improve?

My hands. I don't want to drop anything this season, not a single drop. I'm also trying to get more physical and get bigger in the weight room. 

What is your favorite memory?

When I was a freshman at Palmetto High, I was playing quarterback against Lakewood Ranch High. We called a read option. The defensive end crashed so I pulled the ball and kept it, and I walked into the end zone. That was my first varsity touchdown. 

What are your goals for the 2024 season?

I want more than 1,000 receiving yards and 50 catches, and I want the team to win a state championship. 

What is your favorite food?

Right now I would say salmon, I have been rocking with that lately. 

What is your favorite school subject?

Science. I like doing the labs, especially chemistry labs. It's interesting. 

What is your favorite movie?

I like the "Bad Boys" movies. 

What are your hobbies?

Well, the new "College Football 25" game just came out, so I have been playing that. I play with Colorado so I can play as my cousins. 

What is the best advice you have received?

Work hard. Nothing is going to be given to me. Every play I have to go my hardest. 

Finish this sentence: "Dylan Wester is …"

Outgoing.