The IFL’s Green Bay Blizzard fortifies their defense by signing Dedrick Vanover, a defensive back with a notable collegiate history, for the upcoming 2024 season. Standing at 5’10” and weighing 175 pounds, Vanover is set to join his older sibling, Tamarick Jr., in the spring camp.
During his tenure at Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia, Vanover participated in 20 games across the 2018 and 2019 seasons. His performance on the field, consisting of 53 tackles, 3 tackles for loss, 7 interceptions, 21 pass breakups, and a single fumble recovery, culminated in him being named to the 2nd Team All-SIAC (Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference) in the defensive back category in 2019.
Apart from his football prowess, Vanover exhibited exceptional athletic talent in track and field at the University of Florida. His timeline with the Gators from 2021 to 2022 includes claiming the 2022 SEC 60m Indoor champion title, being part of the winning 4x100m Relay Outdoor team, securing the 1st Team All-SEC title in both 60m Indoor and 4x100m Outdoor events, and achieving USTFCCCA All-American recognition on three occasions: 1st Team for the 4x100m Relay, 100m, and 2nd Team for the 60m Indoor. These accomplishments contributed to Florida securing the NCAA Men’s Outdoor National Championship in 2022.
Dedrick’s exceptional speed also garnered him an exclusive invitation to the University of Florida’s 2023 football pro day. Notably, he was the singular non-football student-athlete from UF invited to this event.
The influence of football runs in Vanover’s veins, with his father, Tamarick Sr., having a history of six seasons in the NFL playing as a wide receiver for the Kansas City Chiefs and the San Diego Chargers.
Dedrick Vanover conveyed his enthusiasm about his latest professional chapter, stating, “I’m excited to continue doing what I love and dedicated everything to do. I’m looking forward to joining the Blizzard community.”
As the Green Bay Blizzard looks ahead to the 2024 season, the addition of Dedrick Vanover signals a step forward in bolstering their defensive lineup, potentially making them a more competitive team in the quest for championship contention.
