Justin Skryd, a senior linebacker at Naperville Central High School, has established himself as a key defensive leader for the Redhawks during the 2023 football season. Skryd, who is the first member of his family to attend Naperville Central, has stood out on a team preparing for its opening-round playoff game against Warren this Friday at Memorial Stadium.

Skryd’s athletic roots run deep in the Naperville area. His father, Dan Skryd, was a three-sport athlete at Wheaton St. Francis and played baseball at Western Michigan University. Numerous uncles and aunts from his extended family also participated in sports at St. Francis, including his aunt Sara, who captured two state wrestling titles before competing at Long Beach State and Western Michigan.

Standing 5-foot-11 and weighing 175 pounds, Skryd leads the Redhawks with 68 tackles this season, including four tackles for loss, along with three pass breakups, a forced fumble, and an interception. Naperville Central, seeded 29th with a 5-4 record, will host the 36th-seeded Warren Warriors (4-5) in the Class 8A playoffs.

Coach Mike Ulreich praised Skryd for his consistent standard-setting on the field. “From day one, Justin has been the guy who set the standard for how we play football,” Ulreich said, noting Skryd’s leadership especially during the team’s early-season struggles. Skryd’s influence extends beyond his own performance, as teammates rely on his knowledge and composure. Junior cornerback Eron Kennedy described him as a guiding presence who makes informed decisions and instills confidence among the players.

Skryd credits much of his development to his coaches and his father, who first taught him the sport and continues to advise him. “My dad has been coaching me all along, even practicing handoffs and tackling drills at home,” Skryd said.

The linebacker acknowledged growth in his game compared to past seasons, citing improved patience in pass coverage and an increased comfort reading opposing offenses. This season, Naperville Central’s defense has notably improved, allowing just 24 points combined in its final two regular-season contests. Skryd highlighted the role of the defensive line in freeing him and fellow linebackers to make tackles and control the middle of the field.

While undecided on continuing football at the collegiate level, Skryd expressed enthusiasm about the team’s return to the playoffs after missing out last season. “I’m just as happy as can be right now. I love that I have another week with my boys,” he said. Reflecting on his role as the first Skryd at Naperville Central, he added, “Hopefully, eventually my kids will come through here.”