Nolan Zbytowski to continue football career at Davenport University

Portland High School senior Nolan Zbytowski recently signed with Davenport University to continue his football career. 

He was a two-year player for the Raider varsity football team and also saw some time as a sophomore under the fifth quarter rule.  He also completed on the Portland varsity track team for four years. 

On the football field he received All Conference and All Region honors in 2025.  On the track he received All Conference and All Region honors.  In 2025 in track, he was All State 1st place and 6^th, and named to the LSJ Dream Team.

When asked about his decision on Davenport, Zbytowski said, “I had a few schools who showed me a lot of love and built strong relationships. Ultimately I’ve wanted to go to Davenport for a long time and visited multiple times. Late in the process Davenport showed a lot of support and showed a lot of interest in me. So after a lot of prayer and talking to my parents I knew that it would be the best opportunity for me to grow and the best fit for my family.”

Zbytowski went on to say, “I’m so thankful that God made it all possible. It’s been a journey of hard work, sacrifices and constant support from so many people. My coaches have done a great job, teaching me so much. Not only do they teach us so much about football, but about life. They are great people to listen to and learn from. My teammates always stuck it out, no matter how hard things got. We built a great bond and were constantly pushing each other. I think Brad and Kayden hit me harder in practice on a weekly basis than I ever got hit in a game. Things like that help though and prepare me beyond what other schools are capable of. I’m forever grateful for this school, my teammates, and coaches.”

Portland coach John Novara said, “Nolan was a captain of our football team and one of the hardest workers that I have ever coached.  He spent countless hours in the weightroom and always led by example.  Nolan has a ton of speed and has the ability to play on both sides of the ball.  Besides being a great running back and defensive back, Nolan can be a great receiver and kick returner.  I am very proud of Nolan and am looking forward to watching him play at Davenport.  Nolan will join his former teammates, Cody Hengesbach and Thomas Perron who are currently on Davenport's roster.”

Photos courtesy of PHS Athletics.