From the Gridiron to the Abyss: How a Former Football Star Became a Federal Oceanographer

The average depth of the ocean is around 3,682 feet, a vast and mysterious world that few of us truly comprehend. Movies like Jaws or Deep Blue Sea offer a glimpse into the underwater unknown, but for a true understanding of the ocean's depths, you need to talk to someone who lives and breathes it. Someone like Dariyan Medley.

A Lexington, North Carolina native, Medley was once a high school football star, a key player in his team's historic victory over rival Thomasville—the first in 23 years. A multi-sport athlete, football was his first love, and he thought it would be his life. "Around this time, I always have the urge for football," Medley shared in a recent phone call.

As his former teammate I recounted a pivotal moment that revealed Medley's character. In high school, during the most critical moments of a game when the team was down, I would look to Medley to see his reaction. you would find Medley either reviewing plays or motivating others. The most challenging moment, however, was when Medley was asked to step in as quarterback at the last minute, with no prior knowledge of the plays. "What am I supposed to do?" Medley had asked me. "Ball out," is what I replied. And Medley did just that. Although we lost by a touchdown that night, Medley’s confidence was so contagious that it spread through the team, giving myself enough confidence to catch a 35-yard interception and score. That confidence carried the team through the rest of the season to the fourth round of playoffs.

After graduating from Lexington Senior High School in 2010, Medley enrolled at NC State to study environmental science technology later graduating with a Bachelors and a master’s in environmental science technology. It was there that his football career came to an end. Medley recalls the tough transition, feeling lost without the sport that had defined him for so long. He credits his father, Coy Medley, for helping him through that challenging period.

Medley and the crew getting the job done.

When asked how he found his way into the world of oceanography, Medley explained that his path wasn't a straight line. He wears many hats in his field and has done extensive internship work, which prepared him for his current role. He says science has become an everyday part of his life, and he cherishes the moments he spends underwater or experimenting on something new. "I never knew I'd be in a profession such as being an oceanographer, but I appreciate this wonderful opportunity every day," he said.

Medley stands alongside his former high school teacher Carrie Foxworth during high school and college graduation.

Medley also credits two key mentors for his success. His high school science teacher, Carrie Foxworth, saw his potential and pushed him to be his best. "Whatever she's seen in me, she brought the best out of me," he says, adding that she even checked on him while he was in college. Medley also wanted to highlight his current supervisor, Chris Rife, for showing him the ropes and guiding him on his journey as an oceanographer.

Keenan Medley 30, Dariyan Medley(middle), Jordan Medley 24, Gavin Medley 18, not pictured.

Throughout his journey, Medley’s biggest motivator has been his father. Medley recalls his dad always being around—whether it was checking on his grades or showing up to football practice. "I definitely can vouch for that".

Medley Poses with mom Angela Troyer after college graduation.

If he had the chance to speak with high school students today, Medley says he would preach the value of internships and emphasize that sports aren't the only path to success. He would instill in them the message that there are other avenues that can lead to a fulfilling career. Medley's story is a powerful reminder that sometimes the end of one journey is just the beginning of an even greater one, leading you from the football field to the depths of the ocean.