Fort Wayne Dwenger's Tippmann continues 'family tradition'

When fans ask Devon Tippmann why he plays football, the Fort Wayne Bishop Dwenger standout can offer a simple answer, “It’s a family tradition.” “For me, football has always been big in my family, and that is how I got into it. My dad, uncle and older brother all played football, and, so, I was always around it and started playing at a young age,” Tippmann told Sideline Prep Sports Report. In two years, Tippmann has made quite a name for himself at both the running back and linebacker positions. For his career, he has rushed for 1,669 yards, of which 431 came last year. He has also recorded 199 yards receiving. On the defensive side of the pigskin, Tippmann has notched 121 total tackles, of which 106 came last year. “It is a great honor to be one of the state’s best at my positions because I know my hard work pays off. I like playing linebacker compared to running back because I have always loved to tackle and hit people since I was a little kid,” Tippmann said. Tippmann said he owes his success to his family, coaches, teammates and God. “Everyone of them got me to where I am today, and I could not have done it without them,” he said. A season ago, Fort Wayne Bishop Dwenger finished 11-2 and lost 10-7 to Valpo in the Class 5A semi state. “Going into the season, our goal, as a team, is to win come together and win as many games as possible. Individually, my only goal is to do everything I can to help my team win. It does not matter what my stats are, or even if I play. As long as we win, I will be happy,” Tippmann said. The junior standout currently has offers from Findlay, Lake Erie and St. Francis, but tells Sideline Prep Sports Report he has been in contact with Dayton, Tiffin and Harding recently. In addition, Air Force and Navy have expressed interest. “I do not have a favorite. In a school, I look for great academics, relationships with the team and coaches, as well as the feel for the school,” Tippmann said.