University of Delaware Athletics
Blue Hens' Coomer Working His Way Back
3/10/2022 4:00:00 PM | Football
NEWARK, Del. – University of Delaware defensive lineman Nick Coomer was a key component to UD’s strong defense during the program’s run to the national semifinals in the 2020-21 season. In his first eight collegiate games, Coomer recorded 19 tackles, including five in the quarterfinal upset at Jacksonville State. He was a force in the backfield, registering 4.0 TFL and 2.0 sacks both of which came in consecutive games during the FCS playoffs.
The Lititz, Pa. native entered the 2021 football season looking to build off his breakout spring campaign. He could not have gotten off to a better start, leading Delaware’s defensive line with seven tackles over the first two games in wins over Maine and Saint Francis (Pa.). Unfortunately, his season ended abruptly when he suffered a season-ending injury in UD’s week three matchup at Rutgers on September 18.
As spring practice has gotten underway for the Blue Hens, Coomer is continuing his rehab as he aims to be back in the trenches for the Blue & Gold at the start of the 2022 campaign. BlueHens.com caught up to Coomer to see how his recovery is coming along.
What has the process been since the last time we saw you on the field at Rutgers?
The last five to six months have been very challenging while going through surgeries and recovery. I rehab just about every day and sometimes twice a day. Overall the recovery process is going very well and I am feeling stronger and better every day!
Our athletic training staff and support staff as a whole here at Delaware have done an excellent job in putting me on the right path to returning to the field. Additionally, the Whitney Athletic Center has provided me with the resources to recover properly.
Have you been able to take away any positives while not being able to be on the field?
As difficult of a time as it was not being able to be out there playing I did learn a lot from being on the sidelines. I was able to take a step back and look at the way offenses do certain things. As well as evaluating myself and seeing what I need to improve in my game. During the season, in practices and on Saturdays, I was just trying to bring energy and be there for my teammates.
While you haven't been able to partake in spring practices, what has the energy been with the new coaching staff?
The new staff has brought a ton of energy and passion that is put on display every day. It doesn’t matter if it’s a workout or practice the energy is through the roof.
Away from football, you are a criminal justice major. What led you toward that major?
I’ve always wanted to get involved with law enforcement so I decided my best route was to be a criminal justice major. It’s very interesting and exciting learning about the field.
UD’s criminology program ranks among the best in the country. What do you think sets them apart from other schools and was that part of your decision in choosing Delaware?
Being enrolled in a top criminology program in the country is awesome. The experienced professors who’ve been in the field and know firsthand what it is like is what sets the program apart!
For the latest on the Delaware football program, follow the Blue Hens on Twitter @DelawareFB and Instagram @DelawareFootball, and like "Delaware Football" on Facebook. Follow Ryan Carty on Twitter @RyanCarty10.
