Trashaun Willis, Washington Used Week 1 As ‘Statement Game’

Photo: Jeff Mills Twitter

Dana Becker

September 2, 2020 @ 10:33 PM

Washington senior Trashaun Willis and his teammates knew they had a tremendous opportunity during the opening week of the prep football season. And they took advantage of it. Willis and the Demons picked up a 19-10 victory over Bettendorf at Case Field, setting the tone for what they hope will be a memorable season. "Going into the game last Friday, we knew that playing Bettendorf was gonna be a statement game to show how really good we are," Willis said. "So getting that win gave us all a lot more confident." Willis completed 6 of 14 passes for 78 yards and recorded 4.5 tackles on defense. He also had a crucial interception that he returned for a touchdown in the game. Last year, Washington finished 7-3, recording its eighth consecutive season of winning at least six games. The Demons fell to eventual Class 3A state champion Western Dubuque in the playoffs. As a junior, Willis made 47.5 tackles including 22 solo stops, nine tackles for loss and a sack. He also had an interception. Like those around the state and country for that matter, Willis and his teammates were forced to adapt to the ever-changing atmosphere around COVID. "This offseason was something no one was used to," he said. "Not being able to practice football was something I wasn't used to, but it felt great to finally get back out there and be able to play with my teammates. "Being able to even get the opportunity to play football this fall is something that we all appreciate because without most of us starters having a senior season, we would be devastated." Willis said he is "interested in playing football" at the college level next year. He attended a virtual visit to Loras and has had contact with several Div. II and Div. III schools including Waldorf and Simpson. "I took a virtual visit to Loras to kind of get into the feel of how it worked," he said. "I'm not too sure what my plans are so far but I'm interested in playing football that is for sure. I've been in contact with a coach from Lamar University (a Div. I program) in Texas." Washington takes on Solon on the road this Friday night.