Plymouth native playing for Clemson Tigers in National Championship

 

A former Plymouth High School football player is living out his childhood dream with the Clemson Tigers football team.

Ryan Mac Lain grew up in Plymouth, just about 20 minutes south of the golden dome in South Bend.

He played football for the Rockies but dreamed of moving on to the next level.

He had two cousins, Eric and Sean Mac Lain, who played for the Clemson Tigers.

Eric was a captain on the 2015 National Championship team so Ryan followed in his family's footsteps and started attending the Tigers football camps.

He eventually earned preferred walk-on status and made his dream a reality in 2016.

"It's about the team and that's what I think is so unique about this team, we're just selfless. I understand that my job is to get the defense ready in certain weeks and if I have to play, I'll play. We just want to see the team win and it doesn't matter who steps up one day, we want to do our part and do our job," Ryan said.

Ryan will have 6 family members and friends making the trip to Santa Clara for the National Championship game against Alabama.

It's a dream come true for both Ryan and his parents.

Ryan says the opportunity to play and beat Notre Dame in the national semi-final was an incredible experience. He has had family and friends from Plymouth and around Michiana calling and texting him with their support.

Ryan says the team leaves for Santa Clara Friday. The National Championship game against Alabama is on Monday, January 7.