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By Sam Dreiman, Athletics Media Relations
What does it feel like coming toward the end of your college career, being a senior, both as a football player and as a student-athlete?
Deke: It’s a little bittersweet. Coming down the home stretch you really start to take advantage of every moment. I’ve really enjoyed my time here. I’m definitely going to make sure these last few games are worth every minute.
What are your plans after graduation?
Deke: I’d like to get a job opportunity. I have an interest in finance and investment; hopefully the market picks itself up and there’s an opportunity to go somewhere and do something like that.
Looking back on your time spent here, what are you going to miss most?
Deke: The proximity to my friends, being put in a situation with so many people your age, where people are a lot like me driven by academics and athletics. Also, just the high-quality friends. That’s what I’ll miss most.
What is your favorite football memory?
Deke: The times where I’ve played have been really great memories, as well as beating Florida State way back when. Going to all the bowl games, all of them were a lot of fun.
What are your expectations for the rest of this season?
Deke: As a team we’re looking to conquer our ACC schedule. Hopefully we can pull it together and turn the season around it all starts now. Personally I’m just looking forward to trying to help this team win.
What have you been able to take away after all this time on the team?
Deke: I’ve been able to take away a feel and strength in my ability to lead. Seeing this whole process has helped me build a higher sense of character. Those things have contributed to my experience here.
What was the most exciting or intense atmosphere in which you have been to or played?
Deke: At the beginning of the Miami game last year when it was the last game in the Orange Bowl, that was great. My dad’s family is from Miami and he grew up going to all those games, so that was a lot of fun for me.
Who was the most amazing player against or with whom you have played?
Deke: Cedric Peerman is my roommate and best friend. His ability to do what he does on and off the field is really something I’ve been awe-struck by. I’ve really appreciated his friendship.
What do you do when you are not playing football?
Deke: I like to get out a lot. I like to fish and spend time with family and friends. I love the beach. I live for the beach. I’m a beach bum. You get me somewhere in the South or the coast, close to the water, and I’m good to go.
Who have been your biggest influences during your time at UVa?
Deke: My roommates the last two years were Cedric Peerman, John Steinberg and Chris Gould, and our experience living together made us closer and brought us together, and all of us coming from different experiences helped me grow as a person.
What is something that most people do not know about you?
Deke: I’ve lived in seven states Arkansas, Connecticut, Virginia, Georgia, Texas, California and South Carolina.
Any last advice for the students at UVa?
Deke: Just appreciate everything you’re given, especially at this university, where it’s academically and extracurricularly special. Just being here in this beautiful place, in Charlottesville, has really been wonderful. Take advantage of every little thing from the football games to things like Lighting on the Lawn, Monticello and the great professors. Don’t miss it because it goes by in a flash. Take advantage of it.