Griffin Wilde Inspires Young Athletes at Hometown Wide Receiver Camp

SIOUX FALLS — Former South Dakota State and NFL running back Zach Zenner once held a youth football clinic eight years ago at the Sanford Fieldhouse, where he inspired many young players, including a then-little-known Griffin Wilde. "I got his autograph and got a picture with him," Wilde recalled. "And as a little kid I thought that was the coolest thing ever."

Fast forward to Wednesday, and Wilde, now a star wide receiver at Northwestern, took on the role of mentor, hosting a wide receiver clinic alongside Riggs Academy and its coaching staff. The event drew an enthusiastic group of children eager to learn from the talented athlete, who has made a name for himself since his days at Sioux Falls Jefferson, where he led his team to an 11AAA state championship.

Wilde's impressive college career includes two seasons at South Dakota State, where he caught six touchdown passes during the Jackrabbits' national championship run in 2023 and topped 1,000 receiving yards in 2024. He then transferred to Northwestern, where he emerged as the Wildcats' leading receiver with 71 catches for 880 yards last season. With his sights set on a senior year filled with potential, he is already being considered for the NFL Draft.

During the clinic, Wilde radiated enthusiasm, engaging with the kids as he ran drills and shared his experiences. He was determined to create a memorable experience for the young athletes, mirroring the inspiration he felt when he met Zenner. "I was just being a little kid," he said. "I was just out there running around with them, screaming and yelling and bringing some energy, and they were doing the same."

As Wilde prepares for the upcoming season with Northwestern, he expresses excitement about what lies ahead. The Wildcats, coming off a 7-6 season, are looking to build momentum this year with high expectations. Under new offensive coordinator Chip Kelly and with a move to their state-of-the-art $850 million stadium, Ryan Field, Wilde anticipates a significant role in the team's success.

"I'm really excited about how the first year went," Wilde noted. "And I'm really looking forward to this upcoming year. (The Big Ten) is kind of as advertised. I mean, everybody's bigger, stronger, more athletic."

Before settling into their new stadium, the Wildcats will kick off the 2026 season with two games at Martin Field, starting with a matchup against Wilde's former team, the Jackrabbits, on September 5. "That's going to be fun," he remarked, emphasizing his respect for SDSU, stating, "I love SDSU. I wouldn't be where I am without them today."