The Wisconsin Badgers have begun to work diligently on developing a relationship with a talented 2028 quarterback from Massachusetts.
Rory Funke, a 2028 quarterback from Needham, Massachusetts, is the starter for Dexter Southfield in Brookline. Funke is currently being protected by Hardy Watts, a four-star commitment in the 2025 recruiting class for the Wisconsin Badgers. Watts is a dominant force, and has been someone who has kept tabs on the recruitment of Funke.
The talented quarterback is also the brother of Dominic Funke, a 2026 three-star edge rusher for Xaverian Brothers. Both of the brothers are being recruited by the Wisconsin Badgers and very well could reunite in Madison one day. However, there is a lot that would need to happen first before that could potentially become reality for the Wisconsin staff.
Funke stated that the main programs in his early recruitment have been Wake Forest, Boston College, Syracuse, and Wisconsin. Funke thanked his brother for teaching him how to “get his name out there” along with showing him the ropes of the collegiate recruiting process. A third brother had also been through the process and the family consistently helps provide insight into the process.
On the field, the quarterback feels a combination of “natural leadership” and a need to win are what sets himself apart. Every quarterback can throw the football, but Funke feels his rare ability to lead with both his performances and his words has allowed the quarterback to stand-out early. Funke also added, “I’m also strong at reading what a defense is doing and adjusting my offense mid-game.”
Off of the field, Funke stated, “I want a program that has a plan for me and will embrace my play style while also pushing me to develop as an overall player.” In other words, Funke does not want to be thrown to the wolves and feel like he must fend for himself. Rather, the quarterback is looking for a program that plans on utilizing the quarterback to the best of their ability.
Wisconsin Badgers Staff Aiming to Impress Rory Funke Moving Forward
With the basic connection established, many programs including the Wisconsin Badgers are trying to dig deeper and find what Funke really wants the most.
As stated previously, Funke is in need of a program that is going to have an actual use for the quarterback as opposed to just depth. Funke wants to feel at home and feel needed, and many programs have already made it clear to the quarterback that they have plenty of plans moving forward. When asked about the talks, Funke stated, “The schools I have visited are always striving for more.”
In addition to his development, there are also two other factors worth note which involve a winning environment and two sports.
Funke noted that being at a school that wins and wants to win football games is something that he is truly looking for. The quarterback also added that his dream is to play both football and baseball at the next level, which would have to be crushed in order to join Wisconsin.
While the Wisconsin Badgers do not have a baseball program, they also do not have the lifelong memories that local Boston College has. Funke acknowledged that Boston College is his “dream” program, but wants to enjoy the process and see what school fits the best before making any decisions.
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