...I wanted somewhere with good opportunity and a place to be challenged, and OWU was perfect for both.
Name: Blake Legner-Dichler
Class year: 2026
Majors: Business administration, communication, and economics
Why did you choose Ohio Wesleyan?
I chose Ohio Wesleyan because of the home campus gives me. Delaware is a great town with a lot of great aspects.
Why did you choose your major?
I came to Ohio Wesleyan anticipating going into the new nursing program, but soon after I started my Introduction to Marketing class I switched. The class was awesome. Professor (Matt) Vollrath made the class fun, and I added on communication & economics because the classes I had in those fields were fun and (ones that) I knew I would enjoy taking the rest of my time here at OWU.
Why did you choose to compete in sports at Ohio Wesleyan?
Before coming to OWU, I knew I wanted to continue playing sports at this level. When meeting the coaches and teammates, I knew this was the place for me. I wanted somewhere with good opportunity and a place to be challenged, and OWU was perfect for both.
Do you have any pregame rituals or superstitions?
This year I have started listening to just Randy Travis on the Bishop Walk to keep me calm before game day, (and) before warmups, myself and a couple teammates take a 200-yard walk together.
Why do you like your position?
Offensive line is the most selfless position on the field. I love the camaraderie we have with one another, and the relief and happiness of doing my job well for the guys next to me. We call ourselves the "Sheepdogs" because we are the protectors of the herd.
What is your number one goal, personal or team, for this season?
My number one goal of the season is a strong end to catapult into a strong offseason. We had many goals going into the season as a squad, but my main goal is that our team ends on a good note for the offseason.
What athletic or academic achievement/accomplishment are you most proud of? What did you do to put yourself in position to achieve that?
My favorite achievement in football is earning All-North Coast Athletic Conference (honors) in my freshman season. To put myself in this position, (my expectation) of myself (was) to start. For me, coming into college, I was all-in on starting (right away) and not wanting to have the year of development or learning.
Is there a specific coach or teammate who has helped you get where you are?
I could give credit to many of my teammates and coaches, specifically, Brandon Planey, Brock Beier, Jalen Buffington, Hayden Bricker, Connor Volpe, Travis Sanders, and Coach (Morgan) Cotter. All these men have given me the tools to succeed and have put me in positions with advice and help to be where I am today. They have shown me the way through college football and given me everything I needed and need today to succeed.
What is your favorite place to eat in Delaware, and what is your go-to dish there?
Victor's Taco Shop. I go for the steak breakfast burrito.
What is your favorite place that you have traveled to as an OWU student-athlete?
My favorite trip so far has been the most recent one. We as a team went to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. I hadn't gone in years, and it was awesome to see the changes as well as revisit a great place.
What advice would you give to someone considering becoming a student-athlete?
Go for it. It is a great time with the best friends I will ever have in my life. The lessons I have been taught about hard work, dedication, and craft perfection are lessons I can never take for granted.
