(Editor's note: DCC Athletics release)
GLENDIVE - Dawson Men's Basketball Coach Joe Peterson announced his first signing for 2020-2021. Six-foot-6, 230-pound Rylan Weltz signed his NJCAA D1 Letter of Intent to play basketball at Dawson Community College.
"College basketball has always been a huge goal of mine, and now I can proudly say that it has become a reality," said Weltz. "Go Bucs!"
Weltz was selected 1st Team All-District 14C this year and All-Conference in all four years of high school, including a 1st team selection this year. He was also All-State this year for Class C, averaging 24 points and 13 rebounds per game. His season highs this year were 42 points and 20 rebounds. He was chosen as the team's top offensive player all four years in high school.
Rylan's coach and father, Ryan Weltz, expressed his eagerness,
"I'm excited for Rylan, he's getting the chance to continue playing the game he loves," he said. "I know it has been a dream of his and something he has worked hard to achieve. Rylan is the best all-around player I have ever coached. He's a big man who can move, shoots well from the outside, can play big in the post, understands the game and a truly fun to coach. Most importantly he is a good person and I know he will represent Noxon and Noxon High well."
Basketball wasn't the only place that Weltz had success, being selected All-Conference in football the past three years and All-State this year. He was chosen for the 6 man All-Star game scheduled for late May as well and was the team's top offensive player as a senior. He turned down football scholarship offers so he could play basketball in college. In track, he was a state qualifier as a sophomore and junior.
"Rylan will probably be the strongest guy in our program next year, but he adds much more than just size," said DCC men's coach Joe Peterson. "As a coach's son, he is a very intelligent and skilled basketball player at his size. I think he's a hidden gem in Montana and we are excited we get to develop him and I'm sure coming here will open up a world of opportunities for his future."
