ÒReceiving a congressional nomination to a service academy is a tremendous honor,Ó Camp wrote. ÒOnly AmericaÕs best and brightest are offered a chance to attend.Ó

Dixon only needs to pass a physical fitness test and his application file will be complete. He will know whether or not he has been accepted by April 15.

He was nominated by his football coach, Jerry Neuman.

ÒMr. Neuman asked me if I would be interested because he saw characteristics in me that were similar to a friend of his, Mr. Weaver,Ó Dixon said. ÒI researched it and started the process.Ó

Dixon had to obtain letters of recommendation from several people, including teachers and a close friend.

He received letters from Jody Disbrow, his math teacher; Gretchen Gladieux, his English teacher; Kim Cotton, his science teacher, Nadine Holzbauer, school counselor; and close friend, Matt Olds.

Dixon said he was attracted to the Naval Academy for several reasons.

ÒI like the rigidness and how sharp they have to look,Ó he said. ÒI also want the great education you get and the full ride.Ó

Dixon is planning on pursuing an engineering degree.

ÒIf IÕm not accepted, IÕll do some sort of ROTC program here,Ó he said. ÒI hope I get in. If not, I can apply again next year.Ó

DixonÕs parents are Dave and Sue Dixon. He has two older siblings, Tom, 19 and Anna, 25.