Never-say-quit attitude helps carry Knighton to spot with Brevard College program

Published 8:00 am Friday, March 2, 2018

As highlights of Dillon Knighton’s senior season played Tuesday morning in Polk County’s auditorium, a common theme began to emerge.

The punt return at Avery. The interception return at Pisgah. The punt return against R-S Central. All big plays sparked by Knighton’s unwillingness to be brought down.

It is a trait that personified Knighton throughout his Polk County career, and one he hopes will serve him well next season at Brevard College.

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Knighton, family, classmates and teammated celebrated Tuesday his decision to join the Tornados program.

“It means a lot,” Knighton said. “This is something I’ve looked forward to doing ssince I was a little kid, so it’s a dream coming true.

“I’ve always been told I’m a slippery player and I don’t go down after contact, so I think I bring a good aspect of fighting for extra yards.”

The versatile Knighton finished his senior season with 15 catches for 164 yards and two scores, 117 yards rushing on 20 carries and a touchdown, 242 yards on punt returns, 201 yards on kickoff returns and 97 yards on interception returns. He had 40 tackles and two interceptions on defense and also served as Polk County’s long snapper on the Wolverine punt team.

“Dillon, I’ve always said he’s the kind of kid you want to jump in a foxhole with,” said Polk County head coach Bruce Ollis. “You can get back-to-back with him and fight off the enemy, so to speak.

“I’m so proud of the opportunity he has made for himself. I wouldn’t be surprised if he doesn’t get on the field next year as a long snapper. And he’ll have the opportunity to get on the field as a slot receiver, probably. He’s a Julian Edelman-type guy. He’s very dynamic as a punt returner and kick returner. I expect great things from him.”

Knighton will be the latest in a line of Polk County players who have continued their careers at Brevard. The list includes Polk County assistant coach Jordan Ollis, in the audience for Tuesday’s ceremony.

For Knighton, the chance to play college football grew out of his approach to his final year as a Wolverine.

“Senior year, it’s do or die, and you’ve got to leave everything on the field and play every play like it’s your last,” Knighton said.

– Submitted by PolkSports.com