Jven Williams-Wyomissing/PSU

The summer is a time to relax and unwind for many people. That’s not the case for Jven Williams. The 6’4, 305-pound offensive lineman continues to work out on a regular basis in preparation for his senior season at Wyomissing. Williams lifted weights before our interview on Wednesday evening. When we finished chatting, he stuck around to run laps. All of his hard work has paid off in the form of a scholarship to Penn State, but he didn’t get to this stage of his journey alone. Williams, who grew up in Reading, thanked his parents for all of the sacrifices that they have made to help him become one of the top OL in the country. ESPN ranks Williams as the #1 guard in the Class of 2023 and the 45th best player overall. We talked about his decision to commit to the Nittany Lions and his relationship with James Franklin. Williams said, “I like how family-oriented he is. When you’re talking to James Franklin, it’s kind of just like talking to a regular person.” Williams added that the location of State College was a big factor in his decision. He told me that he doesn’t have a preference between guard or tackle. He’s willing to play whichever position gets him on the field sooner. Williams has trained with Gov. Mifflin graduate Nick Singleton and Joey Schlaffer of Exeter. He thinks Singleton can have an impact at Penn State as a freshman. Schlaffer, a Class 5A all-state selection at TE, has also committed to the Nittany Lions. I asked Williams if he’ll be competing for Penn State’s Track and Field team. He earned gold medals in discus and shot put at the PIAA-2A championships this year. His throw of 66-7.75 set the state record. Williams owns the District 3 record in the discus at 187 feet. Being a multi-sport athlete is something that’s extremely important to Williams. He emphasized how the throwing events have improved his footwork and balance. The rising senior is excited for the upcoming high school football season. The Spartans certainly won’t be lacking in the size department. Williams will be joined up front by senior Pacen Ziegler (6’4, 275) and junior Caleb Brewer (6’5, 285). Brewer qualified for the state wrestling tournament as a sophomore. Williams revealed what happened when he attempted to wrestle Brewer. Wyomissing finished (15-1) last year. The Spartans fell to Central Valley in the Class 3A state championship for the second year in a row. Williams is grateful to the Class of 2022 for their leadership and guidance. That class included five all-state players. Williams stressed the importance of having an experienced coaching staff including head coach Bob Wolfrum. The “Wizard of the Wing-T” has led Wyomissing to ten District 3 titles and the 2012 state championship. Wolfrum has piled up 337 victories over 35 seasons. Williams believes the Spartans will have more competitive games in the new Lancaster-Lebanon League. They’ll be competing in Section 4 along with Berks Catholic, Conrad Weiser, Cocalico, L-S, ELCO, Donegal, and Octorara. Before the season kicks off, Williams knows that there’s more work to be done and that’s just fine with him.