Oxford’s Dahzael Castillo – Athlete Spotlight – Presented by Ken Gooch Shelter Insurance

By Angela Brunk

Dahzael Castillo, a determined junior at Oxford High School, is entering the 2025 football season as a team captain with a team-first mentality. Playing both Defensive Line and Left Guard, Castillo is focused on team goals above his individual goals. The team is determined to set the tone of every game from the very first snap. This year’s team philosophy centers on executing at the highest level, controlling the line of scrimmage, and holding each other accountable every step of the way.

As a returning varsity starter, Castillo is excited for key matchups this season, particularly against Kiowa County and the highly anticipated week eight clash with South Central. Despite losing several key seniors to graduation, he credits the coaching staff and hard-working underclassmen for stepping up and filling those roles with intensity and dedication.

The offseason was all gas and no brakes for Castillo. He spent time grinding in the weight room and pushing his teammates through tough sessions. In addition, the team attended two summer camps at Emporia State and Southwestern.

During his sophomore season, Castillo racked up 38 total tackles, including 8 solo tackles, 4 tackles for loss, and 3 sacks. It was his first year starting on varsity, and he made it count, even earning recognition from Prep Redzone.

Outside of football, he competes in wrestling and track. Although undecided on which college to attend, Castillo had the honor of taking his first official college visit to Ottawa University. He plans to study business in college and help at his family’s restaurant business.