Describe any hardships or extenuating circumstances that you have faced to to get to where you are today.
In 1999 I tore my lateral meniscus in my right knee that required major surgery as well as rehabilitation to rebuild the strength in my knee. When I transferred schools from Western Oregon University to PLU it was difficult learning a new system, getting acclimated to the academic demands, and building new relationships with teammates, coaches, and peers.

What were the major contributing factors in your decision to attend Pacific Lutheran University?
The rich tradition that PLU has been known for over the years built by (former coach) Frosty (Westering), being close to home, and knowing that I was at a place where the coaches and players really care about one another had a large influence on my decision to attend PLU.

How has your family helped to get you where you are athletically?
My parents have always been there for me and supported my decisions athletically throughout my entire athletic career. My dad especially has always pushed me to become the best that I could be and supported me along the way. My mom has always been there, too, to support me, despite always being overprotective about me getting injured. But hey, that’s what moms do.

What has been your favorite class at PLU?
My favorite class at PLU was Applied Sports Psychology with Dr. Hacker. It was an awesome class that I would recommend to any athlete at PLU.

What are your plans after college?
Hopefully I will continue to play football at some level, but if not I plan on becoming a graduate assistant at a Division I university to become a strength and conditioning coach.

Has it been difficult to balance athletics with academics?
I think it is difficult for any athlete to balance athletics with academics, but for myself it has been a struggle at times, but nothing too overwhelming that I couldn’t handle.

When your athletic career is all said and done, what is it that you would want people to say about you?
I just hope that people will say that I was an intense physical player who just loved to play football and who was fun to play with or next to.

Describe your hometown and what you miss most about it.
I am home. I went to Puyallup High School, which is only about 10 minutes away. And my dad worked out in the Parkland area when I was growing up so to me, PLU is home. It is nice being close to home, my family and my friends.

What is your favorite place on campus?
The football field, fitness center, and the UC, Bistro, or any other designated food area.

What is your favorite restaurant in Tacoma?
I would have to say Stanley and Seaforts.

What song is playing on your ipod before a game?
Drowning Pool-Let the Bodies Hit the Floor.

Read more about senior wide receiver Craig Chiado