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Devon Wright is drawing plenty of attention for Taravella

lblustein@MiamiHerald.com

Wherever he goes cameras follow, pens and pads write down his every move and recorders get the words that flow from his mouth.

Welcome to the world of Devon Wright -- the senior running back from Taravella, who just happens to be the two-time defending Broward County large school rushing champion.

For someone who has played the sport for just three years, this 6-1, 185-pounder has gotten plenty of attention. Perhaps more than the last standout who wore the Trojans uniform over a decade ago.

The comparison between Dan Morgan and Wright are extremely familiar. Both were tremendous running backs who also played safety. Both are quiet and never direct attention to themselves. Both were predicted to accomplish some grand things. Morgan has already done it with the University of Miami and in the National Football League. Wright is a work in progress.

As Wright learns the game and deflects the praise that comes his way, he continues to impress. Even when conditions dictate that he should have an off game, he still manages to defy the odds.

In the season opener last Thursday, Wright ran for more than 211 yards on a muddy field. At a time when most would be pleased with the performance, Wright has learned that this team game is about wins and losses and not about personal achievements. His two fumbles in a loss to Cardinal Gibbons did not sit well, and after the game, he spoke his mind.

DISAPPOINTING GAME

``We didn't win, and to me that is the bottom line,'' Wright said. ``This team has high expectations and losing is no longer acceptable around here.''

For veteran coach Dan Marguriet, hearing his senior speak about team goals is music to his ears. He has coached his fair share of quality individuals in his impressive career, but he has also accomplished plenty with teams.

At a time when Wright is receiving attention from schools such as Boston College, FIU, Mississippi, Central Florida, Florida and several other programs, it's other players on this Taravella program who have benefited from the exposure that Wright brings. In his first two season, he ran for 2,900 yards and 30 touchdowns.

``Devon is the kind of athlete every team should have,'' Marguriet said. ``He is the ultimate team player and one of the best teammates you can have. While he makes our team go, he has also helped to give other players exposure from colleges who came to watch him perform.''

Indeed, players such as linebacker/tight end Brandon Steg (Uconn commitment), Rashad Mack (defensive back), Shawn Weathers (safety), Chris Roys (quarterback) Scott D'Attilo (defensive back), Mario McDonald (offensive lineman), Dave D'Attilo (defensive end) and defensive tackle Nick Long are seniors who have had major colleges watch their every move over the past two years.

``When you have a talent like Devon on your roster, everyone wins,'' said Charles Fishbein of Elite Scouting Services. ``He is a team player who leads by example and that is very important to colleges I have talked to about him as a total player.''

While the senior class has felt the direct impact of Wright, the underclassmen are learning from being around this gifted athlete. Players such as juniors Brian Shipe (fullback) and Chris Holmes (offensive lineman) and impressive sophomore center Dominick Lopez have learned from watching how he carries himself.

``You can't say enough about a player who gives 100 percent every time he puts on the uniform,'' Marguriet pointed out. ``Everyone benefits, and that something that not every program is fortunate to have.''

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