Aaron Graves was built for football, and is in the mold of a typical University of Iowa lineman both on and off the field.

The Southeast Valley senior, who committed to Kirk Ferentz and the Hawkeyes as a precocious freshman, was recently named the Iowa Football Coaches Association (IFCA) Class 2A Player of the Year for the 2021 season.

“Coach (Kirk) Ferentz is getting a top-notch player,” said SV head coach Mike Swieter. “There is nothing but growth ahead for him.

“He is exactly the athlete that Coach Ferentz and his program look for. He is a perfect fit for Iowa.”

Graves helped lead the Jaguars to the school’s first state championship this past season, and was also named the 2021 Iowa Gatorade Player of the Year.

“It’s cool seeing football (recognition) last even into spring sports,” Graves said. “This is obviously a huge honor to have as well. All glory to God.”

Graves finished his season with 63 tackles and 14 sacks. He is the school’s career leader in tackles (221), tackles for loss (37) and sacks (59.5).

Before Graves ever hit the varsity field, Swieter knew what type of player he was getting. And even after winning the state championship, competing in basketball and wrestling and now track, Graves is still helping the Jaguar football program.

“He is a very coachable kid. That’s one of the biggest things I like about him,” Swieter said. “After the championship and still to this day, he’s helping me with everything to push the kids to get better in the weight room and with everything else.

“He continues to be a great worker and is leaving a lasting legacy.”

Even with his elite status as a star on the field and a future Div. I prospect, Graves stayed true to himself.

“You won’t see any difference with Aaron,” Swieter said. “He has worked hard and never bragged about it. It’s never been about him. It’s all about the team.”

In June, Graves will make his way to Iowa City — but not before competing in one last sport for the Jaguars in track and field.

“He outworks everyone in the weightroom and is non-stop,” Swieter said. “He was another coach on the field for us.

“Aaron is a great leader. He would lead our team in prayer and get the kids fired up before every game.”