Quinton Schooley had some strong offers at the Division II level.
However, the offensive lineman from Chanute wants to eventually play on Saturdays for a Division I school. That’s why Schooley, an All-State lineman and Kansas Shrine Bowl selection, is going to begin his collegiate career at Butler Community College.
“Division I was what he was wanting to do, so he didn’t settle,” Chanute head coach Don Simmons said. “Butler is very excited about having him.
At 6-4, 260 pounds, Schooley is not your typical big guy. Sure, he’s strong, but also displayed a great deal of athleticism. He was an all-league linebacker in addition to the honors he received as an offensive lineman.
“He’s very big, but he’s very athletic as well,” Simmons said. “He can run and move, and he doesn’t quit.”
Schooley has been clocked at 4.8 second in the 40-yard dash and was athletic enough to play linebacker for the Blue Comets.
A Kpreps 4A All-State selection on the offensive line, Schooley helped Chanute to an 8-4 record and a trip to the state quarterfinals. He was named a first-team All Class 4A selection on the offensive line by both The Topeka Capital-Journal and The Wichita Eagle. Schooley also is a two-time All-SEK League selection on the offensive line and at linebacker this past season.
“Yeah, I think I surprised people with my speed sometimes,” Schooley said. “I especially surprised opposing coaches. They don’t expect someone out of southeast Kansas to have that speed at that size.”
Schooley out-sized most of his competition on the line but also could keep up with many of the skill position players.
His combination of size and athleticism provides a lot of options for where he can play at the collegiate level. Schooley excelled as an offensive tackle for Chanute, but Butler is planning on starting him out at tight end.
“I’ve been working as a tight end,” Schooley said. “I’ve always wanted to play tight end. They’re working on drills to get me faster and stronger.
“I’ve still got some growing to do. If I bulk up to 295 or300 they may move me back to offensive tackle.”
Simmons said he is confident that Schooley can find success no matter where he plays.
“He’ll get stronger and has the frame to put a lot more weight on,” Simmons said. “He played well against better competition.”
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