November 17, 2010
By David Selig
The Winchester Star

WINCHESTER- David Alaniz's football career at James Wood High School may be over, but the senior tight end/defensive end is still hoping to help out the Colonels' athletic program.

Alaniz has entered a video of his junior year highlights into a contest at PlayNextLevel.com, and if his video is voted the best, James Wood would be awarded $5,000.

Alaniz's video is currently in fourth place based on votes by visitors to the site, and he's the only player from the state in the top 10.

If he finishes in the top 10, his school will be guaranteed at least $500.

"That's the whole point of it," Alaniz said. "To raise money for the athletic department."

Fans can watch the 3-minute video and participate in the second round of voting though Friday. (Each visitor is allowed one vote per day.) The final round of voting for the top videos will take place from Nov. 20 through Dec. 19, according to the website.

Alaniz - who caught 15 passes for 156 yards and three touchdowns his junior season - said his father helped put the video together with film he took from games last season. Alaniz posted the video months ago, and he was contacted by the site suggesting it for the contest.

Alaniz said he thinks his video has been well received because he displays a wide range of blocking and pass-catching in the highlights.

This season, Alaniz had 12 receptions for 107 yards, and he made 41 tackles and three sacks on defense. He's been chosen for the Chesapeake Bowl senior all-star game Dec. 30 at Towson University.

Posting highlight videos on the Internet has become increasingly popular in recent years, as players try to broaden their exposure to college recruiters.

Alaniz said it's too early to say where he'll be attending school next year, but he has generated interest from college programs simply from putting the video online.

"The coach from Elon said he saw it on YouTube," Alaniz said, "and then he decided to give me a call."

PlayNextLevel.com