Dillon Gabriel is one of the top quarterbacks in college football, leading the Oklahoma Sooners offense. But behind his success is his father, Garrett Gabriel, who helped raise and support Dillon into the star player he is today. Getting to know more about Garrett Gabriel gives insight into the family that shaped Dillon into a football phenom.
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Who is Dillon Gabriel’s Dad?
Dillon Gabriel’s dad is Garrett Gabriel, a former football player himself. Originally from Hawaii, Garrett Gabriel was a standout quarterback in high school. He went on to play college football at Hawaii Pacific University, where he continued to excel at the quarterback position.
After a successful college career, Garrett Gabriel had a short stint playing arena football professionally. However, an injury cut his pro football dreams short.
Garrett Gabriel’s Early Life
Born and raised in Hawaii, Garrett Gabriel grew up surrounded by the island lifestyle. As a child, he quickly took to sports, especially football, baseball, and surfing.
Showing natural talent and leadership skills, Garrett excelled as a quarterback throughout his childhood. He attended Saint Louis High School, where he was the starting varsity quarterback. Leading his team to back-to-back state championships, Garrett Gabriel made a name for himself in Hawaii high school football.
Garrett Gabriel’s Athletic Career
After a standout high school career, Garrett Gabriel committed to play college football at Hawaii Pacific University. He continued his quarterback success, re-writing the record books during his college career.
When his college career ended, Garrett Gabriel had brief professional football aspirations. He played arena football for two seasons as a quarterback. However, a severe leg injury prematurely ended his professional football dreams.
Forced to give up his own football career, Garrett Gabriel then focused on helping guide his son Dillon’s path in the sport.
Father-Son Bond: Garrett and Dillon Gabriel
As Dillon Gabriel emerged as a talented young quarterback, Garrett devoted himself to supporting his son’s football development. Dillon has frequently noted that his dad is his biggest mentor and supporter in life and football.
Garrett passed down his quarterback knowledge and skills, helping hone Dillon into an elite signal caller. As Dillon blossomed into a top high school recruit, Garrett provided guidance and advice during the recruiting process.
When Dillon committed to UCF, Garrett was a steadfast support system as Dillon acclimated to college life and football. Their strong bond continued as Dillon transferred to Oklahoma, with his dad cheering him on every step of the way.
Even though Garrett Gabriel is no longer Dillon’s coach, he still offers critiques on his son’s performance. As Dillon shared, “He’s backed off a bit since he’s not in it anymore, but he’s still my dad. He loves football and we’re always talking ball, reviewing plays, and going over fundamentals. He’s always there to give me tips on how I can improve and be my best self. I’m so grateful to have a dad who cares so much and still pushes me to excel. I need that motivation and constructive criticism. It shows how much he wants me to keep getting better as a player and person.”
Dillon Gabriel’s Football Journey
With his dad’s guidance, Dillon Gabriel developed into one of the top high school quarterbacks in the country. He committed to UCF, where he instantly became the starter, passing for over 8,000 yards and 70 touchdowns during his freshman and sophomore seasons and winning the American Athletic Conference Offensive Player of the Year award.
Throughout his meteoric football journey, Dillon Gabriel has leaned on his dad’s mentorship. Dillon recognizes that his father’s support has been instrumental in allowing him to achieve his football dreams. Their tight family bond shaped Dillon into both the star quarterback and dedicated teammate he is today.
