Cy Woods All-Time Roster: Number 34

The number 34 holds a special place in Houston sports lore. Three of the greatest athletes in their respective sports, Hakeem Olajuwon, Nolan Ryan, and Earl Campbell, wore 34 during their illustrious careers, and all three of them played in Houston.

Now, let's take a look at all the Wildcat football players who have worn #34.

Patrick West was a starting linebacker and team captain in 2008. Pat, who also played baseball at Cy Woods, originally committed to Angelo State for football. Later, he successfully walked on at the University of Houston during the Kevin Sumlin era, although he did not appear in a game.

Patrick West, 2008

Cody Small, a defensive end, was promoted in 2009, midway through his sophomore season. As that season progressed, Cody played a more prominent role on the defense, especially during the playoffs. He eventually became a three-year letterman for the Cats, serving as a team captain in 2011, his senior season. Cody started out that year as a receiver, but when that move didn't pan out, he returned to the defensive line and strengthened an already formidable defense. In addition, he also served as the long snapper as a junior and a senior. Cody was also a thrower during track season for the Wildcats.

Cody Small went on to play college football as a tight end at Kansas State.

Cody Small, Cypress Woods Wildcats, 2009-11

Photo from his Facebook page.

Cody Small, Kansas State Wildcats, 2012-16

James Allen was the next player to wear #34. He was a backup linebacker in 2012.

James Allen, 2012

Another backup linebacker, Julian Murray, wore 34 in 2013.

Kason Franklin, a safety, made the varsity in 2014, his sophomore year, and was a three-year starter. He switched to 22 in 2015.

Photo by Cameron Brooks.

Kason Franklin, 2014-16; wore #22 in 2015 and 2016

Collin Joyce, an outside linebacker, wore #34 in 2016. He was thrust into a starting role late in the season due to injuries. I think he also swam or played water polo for the Wildcats.

Dylan Cormier, a quarterback, was given this number when he was called up in 2018, his sophomore year. He had to wear #34 because the new jersey set doesn't have #16, #18, or #19. Dylan switched to #17 in 2019.

Photo by Tom Dendy

Dylan Cormier, 2018-present; currently wears #17

Bryce Gehlbach, a safety, wore #34 in 2019. He was a backup who saw most of his playing time come on special teams. His younger brother, Blake, is an A-back and a defensive back.

Photo courtesy: Phlox Photography

Bryce Gehlbach, 2019