Senior running back Daniel Larmie is one of three returning all-state players for the Ankeny football team. He helped the Hawks to a 6-5 record and a trip to the Class 5A quarterfinals last season.
Larmie rushed for 1,208 yards and 11 touchdowns on 186 carries while also catching 11 passes for 56 yards as a junior. He was named to the Class 5A second team by the Iowa Football Coaches Association and was a repeat pick to the coaches’ District 6 first team.
Here is some inside info on Larmie:
How was your summer? Did you attend some football camps?
My summer was great! And yes, I did attend quite a few camps.
How are the preseason practices going?
Our practices are going great. Everyone is taking gigantic strides every day.
You shared much of the rushing load with Caden Henkes over the last two seasons, but he has now graduated and moved on to Sioux Falls. Are you ready for the challenge of taking on a heavier load?
I’m always up to the challenge and ready for more when it comes to the amount of carries I get. I know that our coaching staff and my fellow teammates trust me with the ball so yes, I’m ready.
Coach Jeff Bauer told me that he wants to limit how many hits you have to take, but he also mentioned that the defenders often get the worst of it after colliding with you. Do you enjoy delivering some punishment of your own?
Yeah, I think we do a great job of just limiting the amount of hits all around, but I do understand and think that it’s good to get hit every once in a while. Our guys on defense need that kind of contact to be ready for the season.
Your offensive line suffered some losses to graduation, but Zach Breitbach and Ryan Pruin are back and have been joined up front by transfer Owen Liechti. Are you developing a good chemistry with the new line?
Yes, I would say this is probably the biggest offensive line that I’ve worked with through all my years on varsity.
Your team will have a new quarterback in Kael Roush, who was the backup to Luke Anderson a year ago. Do you think Kael will surprise some people?
Yes, Kael is a great leader, one of my best friends and a great QB. I think he’ll shock the state this year. In practice, Kael makes crazy strides every week and I think he’s due for a big year.
Your team also has a new offensive coordinator in Rob Luther. Has it been a smooth transition to learn his system?
Yes, the transition has been great! You will see this season.
Your team will open the season on Friday by hosting Waukee Northwest. What do you know about the Wolves?
They will be a great test to kick off our season.
How important do you think it will be to win the opener and set the tone for the season?
Yes, I believe the season opener will be important to set the tone for the rest of the season. However, all games on our schedule are equally important. Our goal is to win a state championship, and every game is important.
Do you have any individual goals for the season?
My goals are all in line with the success of the team!
Where are you at in the recruiting process? Do you have very many offers?
I’m kind of in the middle of it right now. I only have one at the moment, but I know more will come!