UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - From joining the program as a run-on, earning a scholarship in 2022 and becoming a team captain in the span of three years, redshirt sophomore Dominic DeLuca has earned the prestigious No. 0, living out his dream and inspiring others to never give up.
Following in the footsteps of former Penn State safety and linebacker Jonathan Sutherland, who donned No. 0 for three seasons, DeLuca was announced the next recipient of the honorary number with a video in front of the entire team.
A vocal leader with infectious energy and a unique level of heart and determination, DeLuca acknowledged that despite his smaller stature, his heart and effort is what drives his game. The No. 0 signifies a confident leader that exemplifies team values and DeLuca's style of play makes him a perfect fit to wear the number and serve as a captain for the 2023 campaign.
"It means the world to me," DeLuca said. "Just stepping into this role, I used to dream about going to Penn State and now I'm a captain for them. You couldn't ask for a better plan for me. I just want to be the guy that shows you, if you follow your dreams, if you do everything right, follow the process, it pays off eventually and you just never know when it will pay off. You just gotta keep on working hard."
DeLuca is fulfilling a lifelong dream of playing at Penn State. His journey to Happy Valley was a windy road which required rehab of a torn ACL after earning Pennsylvania State Player of the Year honors in high school. However, he appeared in all 13 games last season and earned the team's outstanding run-on award before being awarded a scholarship.
Recognizing how the past few months have led to, "a crazy 2023," DeLuca plays with his heart on his sleeve and a chip on his shoulder. With 29 tackles, a sack and a blocked punt last year, DeLuca's found a consistent spot on special teams and with the defense, knowing to never take a play off. However, he never thought he'd be a captain.
"I would have told you you're crazy," DeLuca said. "I always knew it was a possibility and if I worked hard enough, I can just be like everyone else on the team. And I don't need the five-star, three-star, four-star, whatever you want. I don't need those stars to tell me how good I am. I knew once I got my feet on campus, I would prove myself."
Head coach James Franklin described DeLuca as a "prideful young man" and a player who has made the most of his opportunities.
Franklin also recognized DeLuca's work ethic both on and off the field, noting DeLuca as a leader with an active presence in the meeting room and a dynamic athlete in the weight room.
Leading by example, DeLuca participates in everything like "it's the Super Bowl for him," as described by Franklin.
"I think he's a really good example of somebody that's come to Penn State and is maximizing his experience, both academically and athletically," Franklin said. "I think he's a guy that has really universally earned everybody's respect throughout the program, coaches and players alike."
Receiving a FaceTime call from his best friend back home, the West Pittston, Pennsylvania, product was told about a young kid walking on the sidewalk with his jersey on. Once holding a big dream of playing in Beaver Stadium, DeLuca can feel the love from his community.
Recognizing how "heartwarming" it is to inspire young people, DeLuca shared key messages that he was told as a young football player growing up and ones that have stuck with him, even as he plays on college football's biggest stage.
"For the young kids, it's just working your butt off and never giving up on your dreams," DeLuca said. "You never know when the time is gonna come, when your opportunities are gonna come and just always be ready for the opportunity and take advantage of when you have the time."
Another captain alongside DeLuca on the defense is senior safety Keaton Ellis who's played in over 40 games in a Penn State uniform.
Watching DeLuca lead from afar has inspired Ellis to be a better leader himself. Outlining how DeLuca has found his voice and has built a keen level of trust, Ellis explained how DeLuca's energy has injected a much needed spark into the team.
"Dom's a great guy for us and was something that we really needed," Ellis said. "He's earned the trust of everybody on the team so his voice carries a weight. Whenever he speaks, people listen and we need that. He brings great energy every day to practice and I'm just really thankful for him."
