The New Class: Houshun Gaines
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Height: 6'4"
Weight: 225
Position: Defensive End
Hometown: Rocky Mount, NC
High School: Nash Central
Rivals.com Rating: 5.6, three stars
Rivals.com Position Ranking: 31 WDE
Rivals.com State Ranking: 25
Recruited by:Charley Wiles
Has your size changed at all?
I haven't really gotten a new measurement on height, but I'm about 234 right now, 235. I'm trying to get to 240 and since I'm done with track, it'll be a lot easier because I won't be running as hard. I'll definitely get to 240 when I get up there.
What does your workout routine entail?
I just work on a lot of footwork drills, a lot of handwork drills. I work on my pass-rushing, watch a lot of film, because I wanna be a student of the game. And there's a lot of linebacker drills, so I can keep my mobility and play in space.
When do you plan on reporting to Virginia Tech?
July 1.
What do you plan on working or improving on through this summer?
Just become more of a student of the game. I wanna watch film, do drills. When I come in, I wanna show I'm not only an athlete, but I know different types of offenses a well.
How would you describe your playing style?
I would describe my style as versatile and high-motor.
What are some of your goals for your freshman season at Virginia Tech?
Just becoming a better football player. I wanna come in and learn as much as I can, be the best player and person that I can. Really, just being able to come out and make an impact immediately, show that I can be a leader.
What player or team are you most looking forward to going up against?
I don't really have a specific player, but I'm definitely looking forward to playing UNC, being a Carolina guy.
What's your favorite food?
Steak and potatoes, most definitely.
What is your favorite movie?
It would have to be "Remember The Titans."
What is your favorite TV show?
I guess ESPN's "First Take" because that's really all I watch.
What's the one song you're getting hyped up to before a game?
There's just so many. "Save Me" by Chief Keef.
What would be three words to describe you?
Intelligent, leader and humble.
If you could date any celebrity, who would it be?
Oooooh, it would be between...this is kinda hard. Ok, I'm gonna go with a solid one, Keri Hilson.
If you could go toe to toe in the ring with anybody, who would it be?
I'd probably get knocked out immediately, but it would be Muhammad Ali in his prime.
What's been your most memorable experience playing football?
It would have to be the opportunity to go to the Shrine Bowl and be around the kids, get to know those kids. I say that because football brought me that opportunity. That definitely stands out to me the most.
What's the one thing you learned from your recruitment that you would pass on as advice to a future recruit?
Take every visit you can and enjoy the whole process. Don't let it stress you out, have fun with it and enjoy it, because it's an experience, it's a process and you only get one. Have as much fun with it as you can.
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